BBC Turkish's article on the results of scientific research and tests on electronic cigarettes.
Are electronic cigarettes safe?
While electronic cigarettes are increasing their popularity day by day, they remain at the center of the debate. There is much debate about the prohibition of electronic cigarettes in public places and the long-term health impact. In order to put an end to these discussions, Michael Mosley seeks the answer to the question: Are electronic cigarettes safe?
Burning tobacco while smoking produces very high levels of addictive nicotine release to the outside. But at this point nicotine is not a problem: in addition to smoking, nearly 4000 other toxic chemicals are mixed with the air, which increases the risk of cancer, heart disease and other serious diseases. In order to understand the effects of smoking and smoking on the human body, Michael tested a group of smokers and a group of smokers. Slobber, urine and breath samples were taken from the people in both groups to learn the levels of different chemicals.
Test results
Nicotine is an addictive chemical found in cigarettes. In our tests, we see that people who smoke electronic cigarettes take the same level of nicotine as people who smoke. It is concluded that electronic cigarette is an alternative for nicotine-dependent cigarette users. Carbon monoxide is a harmful chemical substance that causes heart disease. In addition, acrolein is another harmful chemical substance that causes cancer and liver diseases. Tests found that people who use electronic cigarettes are much less than those who smoke. In fact, the level of these chemicals in people who use electronic cigarettes is quite close to the level of people who never smoke. This means that electronic cigarettes are much less harmful than normal cigarettes.
Importantly, the results of this small-scale test also reflect the results of larger and more comprehensive research. Michael met Professor Peter Hajek, director of the Tobacco Research Unit at Queen Mary University in London. Peter Hajek believes that electronic cigarettes can be used to stop smoking, end smoking-related illnesses, and thus reduce mortality. Since electronic cigarettes are being used by the society, it is not known whether some of the chemicals contained in them will be harmful in the long run.
Electronic cigarettes have an addictive effect due to the nicotine it contains. There is also the idea that the widespread use of electronic cigarettes will normalize nicotine consumption, that the social changes resulting from smoking bans may become invalid, and that smoking may somehow be socially acceptable. The British Medical Association wants to prevent the use of electronic cigarettes in public areas.
As of 2016, some electronic cigarettes will be licensed and used as medicines in the UK. This will, for example, be based on health statements such as whether it contains more than 20mg / ml nicotine or will help to quit smoking when used. Products that are not in either of these two categories will be controlled under consumer products legislation.
