July 2009
Electronic cigarettes are being advertised as a safer alternative to regular cigarettes. They are battery-operated devices that contain nicotine, flavor, and other chemicals. But there is no evidence that they are safer, and because they are not regulated by the FDA, some are clearly much more dangerous.
The FDA has studied a sample of these products and is now warning the public about their risks of toxic chemicals. For example, some samples contained chemicals that cause cancer or that are otherwise toxic, such as an ingredient used in antifreeze.
Companies that are selling these e-cigarettes online are making safety claims that are not true. For example, an ad for the Gamucci brand claims their e-cigarettes “are a truly healthier and satisfying alternative.” Their online ad features a girl who looks like a teenager and their product comes in different flavors, such as chocolate, apple, and cherry.
Instead Electronic Cigarette company claims that “to our knowledge, no cases of e-smoking related cancer have been reported” but that is a ridiculous statement because cancer takes years to develop. This is a new product and it would not be possible to study the health effects on cancer for many years. That doesn’t mean this product is safe. If a new brand of regular cigarettes goes on the market, they too can claim that there is “no evidence” that their cigarettes cause cancer” but logic would tell us that, like other cigarettes, they do.
The companies selling these products are misleading the American public, and apparently selling them to children and adults.
Don’t be fooled by these ads. E-cigarettes contain nicotine and are addictive as other cigarettes. Because of the chemicals they contain, they might be even more dangerous.
