E-cigarettes are known by many different names. They are sometimes called “e-cigs,” “e-hookahs,” “mods,” “vape pens,” “vapes,” “tank systems,” and “electronic nicotine delivery systems.”

Some e-cigarettes are made to look like regular cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. Some resemble pens, USB sticks, and other everyday items.

E-cigarettes produce an aerosol by heating a liquid that usually contains nicotine—the addictive drug in regular cigarettes, cigars, and other tobacco products—flavorings, and other chemicals that help to make the aerosol. Users inhale this aerosol into their lungs. Bystanders can also breathe in this aerosol when the user exhales into the air.

E-cigarettes can also be used to deliver marijuana and other drugs. For more information, visit the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, About e-cigarettes.

According to the State of North Carolina's Department of Health and Human Services Tobacco Prevention and Control branch, nearly one in seven high school students who has ever tried an e-cigarette never smoked before. A growing body of evidence indicates that these students may be more likely to start smoking cigarettes in the future.

Parents should be concerned about this trend because:

• Nicotine exposure can harm brain development.
• Nicotine is highly addictive.
• Nicotine is harmful to the health of unborn children.
• Nicotine causes harmful physical effects and can be toxic. 
• NC Department of Health & Human Services, Tobacco Control & Prevention Branch

The Surgeon General offers some great tips to help you get started talking with your kids about the potential health risks of using e-cigarettes.

Some key points include:

• Know the facts. Read through the resources below to make sure you understand why vaping and e-cigarettes may be dangerous.
• Be patient and ready to listen.
• Set a good example by being tobacco-free.
• Find the right moment.
• Ask for support. QuitlineNC is a great place to go for more information.