Doubts linger over ‘safer alternative’ to cigarettes
E-CIGARETTES were invented just 15 years ago by a Chinese engineer, but already the devices have been used by an estimated 3million Britons.
Public health experts believe e-cigarettes can play a key role in helping smokers quit, and are already thought to help 22,000 a year break the habit.
Experts agree the gadgets – which turn a liquid form of nicotine into vapour to be inhaled – are far safer than smoking tobacco.
But many scientists are worried about unresolved safety concerns, particularly if used long term.
There are particular concerns about those who use ecigarettes as a ‘lifestyle’ tool – especially those who have not smoked before.
Others are also concerned that e-cigarettes could act as a route for teenagers to go on to smoke tobacco.
Public Health England says the devices ‘must be clearly positioned as products that help adult smokers to quit’.
Critics are especially concerned that several major tobacco firms have entered the e-cigarette market as sales from traditional cigarettes fall. British American Tobacco, for example, has ploughed money into its Vype, Vuse and Voke gadgets.