Teens are more likely to use e-cigarettes than traditional cigarettes; but what are the risks? According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse for Teens:
- Addiction potential. Some researchers worry that e-cigs have a lot more dangers than benefits. For starters, e-cigarettes contain nicotine, just like tobacco does. Nicotine can lead to addiction.
- Inhaling metals. A recent study found that certain e-cig brands contain high levels of metals like nickel and chromium, which might come from the heating coils. When these metals are inhaled, they can be toxic (poisonous) and potentially lead to cancer.
- Gateway drug. Several studies have found that some teens would not have used tobacco if they hadn’t used e-cigs first.
- Delivering toxic chemicals. The liquid in e-cigs—whether or not it’s flavored—can be toxic.
Teens are more likely to use e-cigarettes than traditional cigarettes; but what are the risks? According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse for Teens:
