What is an eCig
?
An electronic cigarette,
or e-cigarette, is an electrical device that attempts to simulate the
act of tobacco smoking
by producing an inhaled
mist bearing the physical sensation, appearance, and often the flavor
and nicotine content
of inhaled tobacco
smoke. The device uses heat, or in some cases ultrasonics, to vaporize
a
propylene glycol- or
glycerin-based liquid solution into an aerosol mist, similar to the way
a nebulizer or
humidifier vaporizes
solutions for inhalation.
Most electronic cigarettes are designed to resemble actual tobacco
smoking implements, such
as cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, but many take the form of ballpoint
pens or
screwdrivers since those
designs are more practical to house the mechanisms involved.
Most are also reusable,
with replaceable and refillable parts, but some models are disposable.
The primary stated use
of the electronic cigarette is as a smoking cessation device, as it
attempts
to deliver the
experience of smoking without, or with greatly reduced, adverse health
effects
usually associated with
tobacco smoke. Nevertheless, concerns have been raised that use of the
device still carries
health risks, and that it could appeal to non-smokers, especially
children,
due to its novelty,
flavorings, and possibly overstated claims of safety.
The electronic cigarette
was invented by Chinese pharmacist Hon Lik in 2003
and
introduced to the market the following year.