Although there is a need for rigorous scientific study of e-cigarettes, we know that the vapor emitted from an e-cigarette contains several volatile organic compounds (e.g., acetone, styrene, ethyl alcohol acetaldehyde) that can cause negative health effects.1,2 In addition, the vapor contains cancer-causing agents (e.g., β-nicotyrine,2 formaldehyde1). The nicotine in the vapor can also react with an element in the air releasing cancer-causing agents, which can be inhaled, absorbed
through the skin, or taken in by mouth.3,4 Lastly, the vapor contains propylene glycol which is currently being tested in animals; there is no known human testing.5-7
In addition to the harmful chemicals in e-cigarette vapor, e-cigarettes simulate the visual, sensory, and behavioral aspects of smoking.8 Using e-cigarettes in smoke-free areas like aircraft may cause others to think smoking is allowed, creating enforcement problems, and undermining smoke-free policies.9 Indeed, product marketers claim that e-cigarettes can be used where smoking is prohibited.