Understanding the Electronic Cigarette User
An electronic cigarette user, often referred to as a vaper, is an individual who inhales aerosol produced by an electronic cigarette or similar vaping device. These devices heat a liquid, commonly called e-liquid or vape juice, which typically contains nicotine, propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, and flavorings.
Usage Patterns and Device Preferences
The patterns of use among electronic cigarette users vary significantly. Some individuals vape infrequently, while others use their devices consistently throughout the day, mirroring patterns seen with traditional cigarette smoking. Key characteristics include:
- Frequency: Ranging from occasional social use to regular, daily consumption.
- Nicotine Strength: E-liquids are available in various nicotine concentrations, from nicotine-free to high levels, allowing users to tailor their intake. Users may select strengths based on previous smoking habits or a desire to manage nicotine dependence.
- Flavor Selection: A wide array of flavors is a prominent feature of vaping, with choices spanning tobacco, menthol, fruit, dessert, and beverage categories.
- Device Type: Users may opt for simple, disposable e-cigarettes, pen-style vapes, pod systems, or more complex and customizable “mod” systems. Device choice often depends on user experience, desired vapor production, battery life, and convenience.
Key Considerations and Terminology
Several aspects are pertinent when discussing electronic cigarette users:
- Terminology: The term “vaper” is generally preferred over “electronic cigarette smoker” by the community and in much of the literature, as the act involves inhaling an aerosol (commonly called vapor), not smoke produced by combustion.
- E-Liquid Composition: Understanding the primary components of e-liquid (propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), nicotine, and flavorings) is crucial for users to make informed choices regarding their experience and sensitivities.
- Aerosol vs. Smoke: Electronic cigarettes produce an aerosol by heating a liquid. This is fundamentally different from the smoke generated by burning tobacco, which contains a complex mixture of thousands of chemicals, many of which are toxic and carcinogenic.
- Motivations for Use: Individuals may start using electronic cigarettes for various reasons, including as an alternative to combustible tobacco, as a tool for smoking cessation, for recreational use, or due to the appeal of available flavors and customizable experiences.
