E-cigarette use on the rise despite health questions Published March 6, 2014 By Kimberly Woodruff Tinker Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Vaping is on the rise. Vaping, or using "e-cigarettes," is becoming popular with Airmen. Many people use vaping as a way to quit smoking tobacco cigarettes, but it may not be as healthy as one is led to believe. An e-cigarette looks like a regular cigarette, but is battery operated with an atomizer that heats a liquid in a cartridge. The cartridge contains nicotine, turning it into a vapor that one inhales. E-cigarettes are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. There is a plan for the FDA to start regulating it, but that process takes time, so as of now, anything goes. According to the FDA, e-cigarette cartridges contain a highly toxic substance called diethylene glycol, an ingredient found in antifreeze, and a number of other carcinogens including nitrosamines, acetone, isoprene and formaldehyde. "Anyone who wants to use vaping as a smoking cessation technique needs to talk with their doctor first," said Laura Crowder, health promotion manager at the Tinker Health and Wellness Center. "The doctor will look at personal and family health history, if there is a history of lung diseases such as emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchitis or cancer. Vaping can actually increase the risk." At Tinker AFB, e-cigarette vaping is only permitted in designated smoking areas. Secondhand exposure can cause irritation to the eyes, nose and throat. Also, e-cigarettes may not be used if operating a government vehicle or airplane. E-cigarettes contain nicotine, but not tobacco. The amount of nicotine varies, so it is difficult to gauge how much nicotine one is receiving. Too much nicotine is bad for the body as it doesn't process well. "We've seen cases of Airmen who were becoming dizzy and just not feeling well after vaping," Ms. Crowder said. "The effects of nicotine can actually be worse than with cigarettes." Vaping is still relatively new and there isn't a lot of research out there to say for sure that e-cigarettes will help one quit smoking. Also, there is not enough research to gauge the effects the carcinogens have on the brain, heart, lungs and kidneys. As if carcinogens were not enough to worry about, e-cigarettes can be combustible. They are battery operated and that battery can overheat. "This was the case for a Florida man who was vaping when the faulty battery exploded knocking out his front teeth, severely burning his face and tongue," said Ms. Crowder. The companies are increasing their marketing with candy flavors like cherry, chocolate and bubblegum, appealing to younger consumers. There is even an e-cigarette called "stealth" for the military community. Although somewhat less toxic, e-cigarettes are addictive and potentially harmful, so before vaping, check with a doctor to weigh the risks and make an informed decision. Contact the HAWC at 734-5506 for other alternatives to quit smoking.