Overview
Source: World Health Organization
Published: 5 May 2024
E-cigarettes are the most common type of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and electronic non-nicotine delivery systems (ENNDS). They heat a liquid to create aerosols that are inhaled by the user. These so-called e-liquids do not contain tobacco and may or may not contain nicotine. They also typically contain additives, flavours and chemicals that can be harmful to people’s health.
This briefer describes the harms of e-cigarettes and how the tobacco industry is deliberately and aggressively marketing these products to make them attractive to children and young people. It also outlines measures countries may take to prevent uptake of e-cigarettes and counter nicotine addiction alongside a comprehensive approach to tobacco control.
