National Working Group for ACTTION

February 23, 2010

Dear Partners:

This month I would like to invite your participation in the discussion over the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes).  E-cigarettes are battery powered cigarette-shaped tubes that heat liquid nicotine into an inhalable vapor, advertised variously as devices to use where smoking is not permitted or alternatives to cigarettes. They are supposed to satisfy cravings for cigarettes without the harms of cigarettes.  Is this too good to be true?

Public health advocates are divided over the role of these devices. Some see them as a good option for smokers who cannot quit.  Others view them as untested devices with unknown and potentially troubling consequences. We would like to know what our Partners have to say on this emerging issue in tobacco cessation.
 
What are your views?  What more would you like to know? Should puffing e-cigarette vapor be allowed now or should its use be delayed until more science is available on these devices?

The discussion on e-cigarettes is part of the larger debate on harm reduction.  Simply put, some analysts argue that for those who cannot quit smoking, some alternative form of nicotine may be desirable.  These alternative forms of nicotine delivery range from FDA approved products like nicotine gum or patches to unregulated e-cigarettes.  The FDA approved forms of nicotine replacement therapy are recommended as part of the Public Health Service Clinical Practice Guidelines for Treating Tobacco Use and Dependence. E-cigarettes, which mimic traditional cigarettes for the user but do not burn or contain tobacco, have not been approved by the FDA.  They have generated recent controversy for a variety of reasons, not least of which is the absence of research on them. Advocates of their use contend that waiting years for research results could delay reducing harm for those not susceptible to conventional cessation products and techniques. Those who advocate waiting until more is known about e-cigarettes are concerned about potential unknown harm and unforeseen consequences. The article on e-cigarettes following this letter details some of the issues.

Please consider posting your views online at http://www.acttiontoquit.org/monthly_briefings/. I look forward to hearing from you.  As the debate develops, I will keep you posted.

Regards,

Diane Canova
Vice President for Policy and Programs
Partnership for Prevention