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E-CIGARETTES (VAPES) SMOKING AND TOBACCO USE
Posted 04/30/26The CDC advises that e-cigarettes should not be used by youth, young adults, or pregnant women, and adults who do not smoke should avoid starting: they may only benefit adult smokers if used as a complete substitute for cigarettes.
KEY RECOMMENDATIONS:
Youth and Young Adults: E-cigarettes are not safe for youth or young adults. Nicotine exposure during adolescence can harm brain development, increase the risk of addiction, and negatively affect learning, memory, and attention. The CDC strongly discourages any use of e-cigarettes in this population and promotes educational campaigns like Empower Vape-Free Youth to prevent initiation and encourage quitting.
Pregnant Women: E-cigarettes should not be used during pregnancy. Nicotine can harm fetal development, and the long-term effects of vaping on pregnancy outcomes are still being studied.
Adults Who Smoke: Adults who smoke and are not pregnant may potentially benefit from switching completely to e-cigarettes instead of continuing to smoke combustible tobacco. However, no e-cigarette has been approved by the FDA as a smoking cessation aid, and dual use (using both e-cigarettes and regular cigarettes) is not recommended because it may increase exposure to harmful chemicals.
Health Risks: E-cigarette aerosol can contain harmful substances, including nicotine, cancer-causing chemicals, and flavoring agents like diacetyl, which is linked to serious lung disease. Acute nicotine exposure can be toxic, especially for children, and vaping has been associated with seizures and other health issues.
Vaping-Related Lung Injury (EVALI): The CDC provides guidance for healthcare providers on evaluating and managing patients with suspected e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury. Patients should be assessed for recent vaping history, and clinicians are advised to consider consultation with specialists when necessary.
Prevention and Cessation Resources: The CDC offers resources for quitting e-cigarettes, including the quitSTART app, quit plans, and educational materials for schools and communities. Reporting adverse events or health issues related to vaping can be done through the FDA Safety Reporting Portal.
Bottom Line: No tobacco product, including e-cigarettes, is safe. The CDC emphasizes prevention, education, and cessation support to reduce the risks associated with vaping, particularly among vulnerable populations.
