What are e-cigarettes?

E-cigarettes are devices that deliver an aerosol to the user by heating a liquid that usually contains nicotine, flavorings and other chemicals. Devices can also deliver marijuana and other drugs.

They are sometimes called e-cigs, e-hookahs, mods, vape pens, vapes, tank systems and electronic nicotine delivery systems.

What do e-cigarettes looks like?

Some e-cigarettes are made to look like regular cigarettes, cigars or pipes. Others look like pens, USB sticks and other everyday items.

What is in e-cigarette aerosol?

The e-cigarette aerosol that users breathe from the device and exhale can contain harmful and potentially harmful substances including:

• Volatile organic compounds
• Nicotine
• Ultrafine particles
• Cancer-causing chemicals
• Heavy metals such as nickel, tin and lead
• Flavorings such as diacetyl, a chemical linked to a serious lung disease

What's the bottom line?

E-cigarettes have the potential to harm some people and are not safe for youth and young adults. If you've never smoked or used other tobacco products or e-cigarettes, don't start.