Using "E-Cigarettes" to quit smoking

As part of my duties as a volunteer teacher at Washington University, I periodically have medical residents (doctors in training) spend a month with me at the office.  I have been fortunate to have Dr. Seema Mahale with me this month.  She will be entering the practice of medicine in a few weeks and has been wonderful to work with.  I invited her to write a post for my blog.  She graciously accepted.  I hope you enjoy!

Dr. Mahale's post:

As I was walking by a kiosk at the mall, I was approached by a salesperson selling E-cigarettes.  While I didn’t buy into the man’s pitch that I will look very sophisticated and cool with an e-cigarette, I couldn’t help but wonder if and how this new device could be used to help people stop smoking. 

First I needed to find out how e-cigarettes work. It turns out there are several different styles available, but the main idea is there is a network of metal filament heated by a rechargeable power source that heats a liquid reservoir. A vapor then is created that the user can inhale. The liquid is made up of water, flavorings and nicotine.

Unfortunately, there have not been many studies done to see the potential beneficial use of E-cigarettes and there are differing opinions. The FDA looked at many different brands of E-cigarettes and studied the content. They found there were traces of tobacco specific impurities that are associated with adverse health effects. Their report also notes there is no way to predict the amount of nicotine actually delivered when inhaled. The FDA also feels E-Cigarettes may even promote younger generations to start smoking since it is a new device. Based on this, the FDA does not feel E-cigarettes can be used for smoking cessation.

However, a small study done by Boston University School of Public Health found that E-cigarettes are much safer than real cigarettes. While E-cigarettes do contain carcinogenic components, the amount is 1000 time less than real cigarettes. The study goes further to suggest that E-cigarettes can be used as an aid to stop smoking as it mimics motions that one does while smoking.

There is no doubt that smoking is bad for you. It increases the risks of several disease such as cancer most notably lung cancer, heart disease, emphysema and poor circulation. However, it is very difficult to stop smoking, as it is one of the most addictive substances available.  Therefore, I feel it is important for one to realize all the different modalities available to help kick the habit. Some combination of counseling, support from family and friends, medications (such as Chantix and Wellbutrin), and nicotine replacement (patches, gums, etc.) are needed for one to be successful to be become smoke free.

I feel E-cigarettes can help people stop smoking and most importantly by using E-cigarettes people are not exposed to such harsh chemicals. The bottom line is a person should pick the method that works for them the best. While it may take multiple attempts, quitting smoking is the most important things you can do for your health.