Health Effects of Vaping Some people see vaping, or the use of vaping devices, as a harmless alternative to smoking cigarettes. While vaping is less harmful than cigarette smoking, it is not harmless (Figure 11.5). Many people believe that vaping produces a water vapor that people inhale. In reality, vaping produces an aerosol, or a suspension of fine particles or droplets in the air—like dust, smoke, deodorant spray, or bug spray. Vaping introduces nicotine (or another drug) into a person’s body and poses significant health risks. E-liquids with nicotine contain large amounts of nicotine. Even some e-liquids that claim to be nicotine-free contain nicotine. As you have learned, nicotine is a dangerous, addictive substance that harms the body’s systems. aerosol suspension of fine particles or droplets in the air Figure 11.5 The statements at the top show common misconceptions about vaping. Read each accompanying explanation to see why these ideas are incorrect. Did you previously believe that vaping was harmless? smartboy10/DigitalVision Vectors/Getty Images Myths and Facts about Vaping When I vape, I am just inhaling water vapor. Vaping doesn’t hurt anyone else. My e-liquid is just flavoring. Everyone I follow on social media vapes. Vaping isn’t addictive since there is no nicotine. *** REALITY CHECK *** E-liquid pods can contain the same amount of nicotine as 20 cigarettes. Nicotine-free e-liquids may even contain nicotine. Vaping companies sell their products and make money through social media campaigns. Vaping produces aerosol, not water vapor. This aerosol can contain harmful substances. Bystanders also breathe the harmful chemicals in secondhand aerosol exhaled by people who vape. E-liquids contain harmful chemicals, including some that have been linked to serious diseases. Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Chapter 11 Vaping and Tobacco 371