The use of e-cigarettes has taken the globe by storm. In Michigan, these products have been banned, and the marketing involved in these products has been limited. Chances are if you have been to a social function or gathering you have either seen the dense clouds that these devices produce, or you may have even been offered to try one.

Technological advancement is constantly changing and evolving the world as we know it. This includes tobacco use in its many forms. It seems as if the cigarette itself has been transformed into something more convenient, but also something that could possibly be far more dangerous. The Spectra staff has recently begun exploring the risks of partaking in what most refer to the practice as “vaping.”

It is important to explain exactly what an e-cigarette is and how it works. TruthInitiative.org describes them as “…devices that operate by heating a liquid solution to a high enough temperature so that it produces an aerosol that is inhaled.” The gadgets contain both flavoring and a humectant, which work to retain moisture and create aerosol so that it is ready to use. Contrary to popular belief, e-cigarettes do not actually produce vapor. They actually produce a kind of aerosol that carry many chemicals. This leads us to ask, just how harmful are these devices, and how many of us actually use these products?

Recently, it has been reported that hundreds of e-cigarette related illnesses and at least seven deaths have come about due to the use of the product. The Spectra staff believes that at as many as 70-80 percent of the Adrian campus students use e-cigarettes in some way or form. This means that each person more than likely knows someone who uses this product, or has in the past.

This type of tobacco use seems to start in high school, in social settings such as clubs, from the influence of a friend or peer, or even at very young ages. While the reasons for vaping could go on endlessly, some of the most notable that were discussed were the fact that the act of smoking e-cigarettes was “cool,” or relaxing.

Ironically, this method of smoking was initially used as a vice to quit smoking. However, it has evolved into another form or facet of addiction itself. It seems as if it doesn’t replace cigarettes, or marijuana, however, it is more convenient and safer in terms of second-hand smoke than the latter.

One of the cautions of vaping that the Spectra staff warns its readers of is the fact that this kind of smoking is very addictive. E-cigarettes contain appealing flavors and scents that promote the risk of addiction. When something tastes good and smells good, people are more likely to continue using them and also more likely to disregard or forget the harmful effects of nicotine.

With that being said, if you can quit e-cigarettes, then it is highly recommended by health professionals. As it goes for any risky activity that you may partake in, we advise that you weigh the risks pertaining to you and the people around you. If you do decide to partake in the activity, make sure you are doing it for yourself, and not because you have been influenced or pressured into doing it by someone else.

SPECTRA