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Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) or vaping is frequently promoted as a healthy alternative to smoking, but it's not without risks. Although it is generally less toxic than smoking, that doesn't mean bestowing e-cigarettes is harmless.

Key dangers include:

• Nicotine Addiction: The majority of vapes contain highly addictive nicotine, which is damaging to the developing brains of youths and can result in lifelong addiction. It's especially hazardous for children, pregnant people, and non-smokers.
• Lung Damage: Aerosols include carcinogens, toxic metals (nickel and lead), and flavorings such as diacetyl, which can cause "popcorn lung" (bronchiolitis obliterans). This includes inflammation, decreased lung capacity, chronic cough, bronchitis, asthma exacerbation, and severe acute lung injury (EVALI).
• Cardiovascular Hazards: Vaping increases heart rate and blood pressure and causes dysfunction of blood vessel lining, along with increased risk of hypertension and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) among exclusive users.
• Cancer Concerns: Aerosols damage DNA and contain carcinogens. Long-term effects are still coming to light, but preliminary evidence suggests increased lung and head/neck cancer risk.
• Other Issues: E-cigarette battery explosions and poly-tobacco use (vaping and smoking) exacerbate problems and exposure to secondhand aerosols.

Overall: Vaping is risky and not recommended for non-smokers, particularly teens. Smokers can benefit from fully switching, but completely quitting is best. Ask a doctor for help quitting. In India, where vaping is illegal, unregulated and illegal products increase risks of unknowns. Don't vape; be safe