A groundbreaking new survey into the electronic cigarette, smokers' health and smoking cessation, carried out by NJOY retailers E Cigarette Direct and analysed by tobacco harm reduction scientists, has shown encouraging results.
An article by researchers in the Carl Phillips research group, TobaccoHarmReduction.org research group at the University of Alberta School of Public Health, concluded:
"The majority of the respondents indicated that their general health, smoker's cough, ability to exercise, sense of smell and sense of taste were better since starting to use e-cigarettes".
Nearly all of those questioned had previously tried to quit smoking using pharmaceutical products, but had been unable to do so.
They had, however, been able to replace cigarettes with electronic cigarettes.
The study pointed out that the respondents were "highly motivated and passionate e-cigarette users who may have different experiences than average e-cigarette users or smokers."
However, it also suggested that "very few e-cigarette users are not using them to replace cigarettes and there are many switchers and current smokers who could have the reported experience."
"While we believe further research is necessary, these initial results are very encouraging," said Jean Rasbridge, Managing Director of E Cigarette Direct.
"Previous research in New Zealand has shown that electronic cigarettes can help alleviate nicotine cravings and increase the level of nicotine in the blood.
"This new study suggests both that electronic cigarettes can both help smokers replace cigarettes, and improve health in the short term.
"We now need longer term research into the effects of the electronic cigarette to see if these results are consistent over time."
Electronic cigarettes are devices that deliver nicotine by vaporizing a gel that also contains water, propylene glycol and flavourings.
In contrast to cigarettes, there is no combustion involved.
Combustion is, according to experts such as Dr. Phillips, the main cause of harm in smoking.
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