Find a Therapist

New study shows no danger in using e-cigarettes

By Staff Writer

Many smokers who tried to quit for years have found success with electronic cigarettes, which allegedly wean users off of nicotine. Experts have been skeptical as to whether e-cigarettes are effective in cessation or healthy to use. However, a new study may provide additional research to make more medical professionals believe that it could be the key to kicking the habit.

Michael Siegel, a professor of community health sciences at the Boston University School of Public Health, recently released a study on the controversial topic with his colleague, Zachary Cahn, a graduate student from the University of California at Berkeley. "Electronic cigarettes as a harm reduction strategy for tobacco control: A step forward or a repeat of past mistakes?" states that e-cigarettes are less harmful than traditional cigarettes and can be used as an effective way to quit smoking.

Siegel and Cahn agree that there needs to be additional research conducted on the topic, but there is no definitive reason to ban e-cigarettes. Currently, many lawmakers and health advocates are pushing to prohibit the devices without any data that proves they are harmful.

As of 2009, approximately 20 percent of adults used cigarettes in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Drug rehab programs may be able to help individuals kick their nicotine addiction.