The dangers of electronic cigarettes Published Aug. 21, 2010 Washington DC -- Commentary by Lieutenant General Charles B. Green, Surgeon General of the Air Force. Electronic cigarettes, also known as "e-cigs," are battery operated devices that look like conventional cigarettes. The e-cig contains a cartridge filled with nicotine, which is delivered to the user as a vapor. Water vapor is emitted from the end of the device to mimic the appearance of smoke. Advertisements claim electronic cigarettes are a healthier way to smoke but one sample tested by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) contained diethylene glycol-a toxic chemical used in antifreeze. Other samples tested by the FDA contained cancer-causing agents yet there are no health warnings on these products similar to those seen on conventional cigarette packages. Manufacturers offer cartridges with decreasing levels of nicotine with the idea that they can be used to help someone quit smoking. No studies have been done to demonstrate the safety or effectiveness of these products as tobacco cessation aids and they are not approved by the FDA as a drug delivery device. Members also need to be aware that the cartridges used in these devices are replaceable and could be used to discreetly delivered substances other than nicotine. Due to the nature, appearance, and safety concerns of electronic cigarettes, they are considered to be in the same category of tobacco products whose use is governed by Air Force Instruction 40-102, Tobacco Use in the Air Force. This new product will be reflected in the upcoming revision of AFI 40-102 due out this fall. Should you have any questions regarding the use of electronic cigarettes, my point of contact is Lieutenant Colonel Dan Kulund, AFMSA/SG3O, (703) 588-7267, DSN 425-7267, or dan.kulund@pentagon.af.mil. Stay up to date with the 315th Airlift Wing at http://www.315aw.afrc.af.mil/. Follow the 315th on Facebook and Twitter.