Cigarette smoking has slowly been declining in the United States. But many alternatives have been gaining popularity.
Alternative tobacco and nicotine delivery products are:
*E-cigarettes
*Smokeless tobacco
*Waterpipes
These come in various forms, sizes, and flavors. They are often marketed as being relatively safe. However, alternative tobacco products contain potentially harmful chemicals and toxins. These may cause serious health problems, including cancer. Because of these risks, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) started regulating these products in 2016.
If you smoke or use these products, talk with your doctor. Find out about ways to quit.
E-cigarettes:
Electronic cigarettes are also known as e-cigarettes or vapor cigarettes. They are battery-operated devices. Some e-cigarettes are made to look like traditional cigarettes. Other devices such as tank systems do not look like cigarettes. E-cigarettes do not burn tobacco. Instead, they have cartridges filled with nicotine and other chemicals. The liquid chemicals turn into a vapor or steam that a person inhales.
E-cigarettes may contain harmful substances. But the types or concentrations of chemicals a person is exposed to will vary by brand, type of device, and how it is used.
E-cigarettes have only been readily available in the United States since 2006. As a result, there’s limited research on their health risks.
Waterpipes:
*A small bowl on top of the waterpipe. This holds a mixture of shredded tobacco and sweetener
*A broad base to hold water
*A pipe connecting the bowl to the base
*A rubber hose attached to a mouthpiece through which smoke is pulled
Potential to spread infectious disease. Sharing a waterpipe with other people increases the risk transferring diseases and viruses. Especially if the mouthpieces are not cleaned properly.