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Vaping and E-cigarettes

Many electronic cigarettes, also known as e-cigarettes, e-cigs, MODs and vapes contain nicotine, the addictive drug in commercial tobacco. Different brands and models of e-cigarettes and e-juice have different amounts of nicotine. When you puff on an e-cigarette and inhale the vapour, the nicotine enters your lungs as a vaporized solution.

At this time, there is not much information on the effectiveness of e-cigarettes as a way to quit smoking. Although e-cigarettes may be less harmful than regular cigarettes, e-cigarettes are not harm free, and more studies are needed to assess long-term risk.

Evidence-based methods of quitting like counselling and/or Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) remain the safest and most reliable way to quit. People who smoke may consider trying vaping to quit smoking cigarettes when other smoking-cessation methods fail. Health Canada has more information on vaping and quitting smoking

Youth and Vaping

Most vaping products contain nicotine at varying levels. In some cases, vaping products can have nicotine levels higher than a cigarette. Nicotine is a highly addictive chemical.

Youth are especially susceptible to the negative effects of nicotine. It can alter brain development and impact memory and concentration. It can also lead to addiction and physical dependence.

Even if there is no nicotine in vaping products, there is still a risk for exposure to other harmful chemicals.

Health Canada has information on how to talk to youth about vaping.

Contact us to find out more by

• Phone: 1 833 998-TALK (8255)
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• Email: talktobacco@cancer.ca