Electronic Cigarette: not all that glitters is gold

Abstract

Introduction: Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death in the world. Electronic Cigarette (EC) is a device that simulates a conventional cigarette and allows inhale nicotine and other substances in a vaporized form, without combustion of snuff. Because it´s marketing and availability, it´s use comes with a steady increase. It is used worldwide to reduce the consumption of snuff, achieve their abandonment or in public places where consumption of conventional cigarettes is prohibited. Harmful effects on health: The use of EC has been associated with lipoid pneumonia and irritation of the upper airway as well as nicotine toxicity. It also contains carcinogens such as nitrosamines, formaldehyde and metals such as nickel, chromium and lead substances. It increases the airway resistance these effect is similar to those that occur after inhaling smoke snuff. Effective smoking cessation: At the moment, there is no scientific evidence with adequate methodology and statistical power that have demonstrated the effectiveness of EC in smoking cessation. Conclusions: According to the available evidence, it seems that EC encompasses some health risks while its effectiveness in smoking cessation has not been proved yet.