E-cigarettes: The holy grail of smoking cessation or a new addiction?

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Alexander Dufort
Aida Owila

Résumé

Since its introduction, e-cigarettes have evoked strongly opposed views and much passion from both proponents and opponents. The proponents of e-cigarettes view the product as an effective smoking cessation tool and a potential savior for millions of smokers. They argue that the vapor based system in e-cigarettes is a much safer mode of nicotine delivery than the combustion system in conventional cigarettes. Opponents view it as a product that at best introduces new bad habits, renormalizes smoking and may even serve as a gateway to smoking in non-smokers.

 

The existing body of literature on the issue, while impressive, is far from conclusive. There is much more to be determined about e-cigarettes before informed decisions can be made about their safety and effectiveness. This article intends to summarize and analyze the scientific arguments raised from both perspectives on e-cigarettes.

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