Electronic Cigarettes, or more commonly known as "E-Cigs" are a new trend taking over Canada. Adults and teens alike are leaning towards being users of electronic cigarettes without being provided enough information on the effects, which currently appear to be uncertain. Electronic cigarettes look like the real thing; they glow at the end just as you inhale and when you exhale, vapor flows out of your mouth just as if a real cigarette would (Morgan, 2014). This effect makes it more attractive to the consumer because it looks, feels and "smokes" just like a real cigarette (Electronic Cigarette's Buyers Guide, 2010). .
A Chinese pharmacist by the name of Hon Lik invented the device and patented it in 2003 and ever since it has boomed because of the way it functions (Cassidy, 2013). A battery the size of a AAA provides power to a little piece at the tip of the "E-Cig" called the Atomizer. When power is allowed to the atomizer, a coil contained inside of it heats up and vaporizes the nicotine liquid held inside a cartridge as the users inhale (Electronic Cigarette's Buyers Guide, 2010). The main function of the device is to deliver nicotine to the respiratory system without tobacco combustion; this explains why "E-Cigs" are marketed as a safer alternative than cigarettes because it excludes the tar and carbon monoxide inhalation (Health Canada, 2009). Although an interesting design, is it safe? That is the question that remains to be answered by researchers (Health Canada, 2009). .
Electronic cigarettes come in two different classes, disposable and rechargeable. Disposable "E-Cigs" range from $10-$15 and last about 400-600 puffs (about a day or two) and rechargeable "E-Cigs" range from a decent $50 to a ridiculous $1000 plus - the only thing that raises price is the luxury aspect.
In Canada, 40% of the population ages 18-24 is aware of electronic cigarettes, and out of that sample, 25% of citizens have engaged in the use of them.
