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Many smokers are wondering about the electric cigarette, but aren't sure what it is or how it works.
It's a fairly new device that releases a dose of nicotine in vapour, instead of smoke, as normal cigarettes do.
Those that are pro the e-cigarette believe it is a healthier alternative to smoking. Their argument is based on the fact that there is no burning, thus no smoke, thus none of the cancer-causing chemicals or gases that are released by the burning of tobacco. There is also no second-hand smoke and therefore it poses no threat to anyone else.
The greatest criticism of the e-cigarette is the fact that it has not been scientifically proven to be safe. The World Health Organisation released a statement in September last year warning that there was no evidence to back up contentions that e-cigarettes are a safe substitute for smoking or a way to help smokers quit.
One Health24 blogger got her hands on one and is keeping a Smoker's Diary blog. Read it and make up your own mind.
Also visit our Stop Smoking Centre or join in the discussion on our smoking cessation peer support group.
