What is Vaping?
Vaping products (aka e-cigarettes) are available in many different forms. Some are designed to look like cigarettes, some are the size of a USB or pen, and others are much larger and may be modifiable. Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine, and many also contain a wide range of flavourings.
Vaping products create an aerosol by heating an e-liquid that usually contains flavourings, nicotine, and a variety of chemicals. The aerosol is inhaled through a mouthpiece and is then absorbed into your bloodstream. There is still a lot we do not know about how these chemicals could impact your health.
Vaping products are legal for sale in B.C. for those 19 years of age and over. However, these products may cause health risks and have not been fully evaluated for safety or quality by Health Canada.
What Are the Health Risks of Vaping?
The e-liquid in vaping products, which is vapourized and then inhaled, contains a variety of chemicals. The long-term risks of inhaling these chemicals are still being studied but research is starting to show negative effects on both lung and heart health, as well as damage to your immune system. Some people have also experienced acute (immediate) lung injuries from vaping.