Electronic cigarettes and adolescents.

Question I see in my office an increased number of adolescents who use electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes). Should I encourage adolescents to choose e-cigarettes over regular cigarettes if they decide to smoke? Are e-cigarettes less harmful and a potential smoking cessation method for adolescents? Answer While e-cigarettes do not have carcinogenic tobacco, most contain nicotine, which not only leads to addiction, but can also impair brain development and cognitive function in youth. Recent studies have also shown that adolescents who use e-cigarettes are more likely to begin smoking tobacco cigarettes. It is therefore essential that physicians explain to adolescents the risks and health concerns e-cigarettes present, and implement measures to prevent or cease e-cigarette use. Copyright© the College of Family Physicians of Canada.