Daily Times

ISLAMABAD: The sale of electronic cigarette is on the rise in twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad being an alternate option for chain smokers to quit smoking. According to a survey, it was observed that e-cigarette may become a good source of encouraging smokers towards passive smoking and then complete get rid of tobacco use. Most of the young smokers are reluctant to quit smoking in any way but when they have options like e-cigarette then there may be chances to stop smoking. E-cigarettes are generally available in major markets in Rawalpindi and Islamabad at different rates. The typical starter kit contains the e-cigarette device, a battery, a charger and several cartridges. Price depends on the manufacturer, model and style, an e-cigarette user Aftab Quershi said. A shopkeeper Abbas Ali said, “I earn a sufficient amount daily on sale of e-cigarette equipment as mostly youth are among those frequently visit to my shop.” “I also offer a refill service as when someone brought e-cigarette then the users visit to me for refilling of liquid of e-cigarette”, he added. He said that nicotine is also available in different flavors such as chocolate, cinnamon, strawberry and even bubble gum adding that there are also cartridges that contain liquid without nicotine, for users who want the sensory experience of smoking without its effect. Railway Hospital Medical Specialist Dr Tariq Mahmood said, “Although e-cigarette is also health hazardeous for human beings but during counselling sessions of tobacco users, this source could be used in a positive way.” He said that while introducing e-cigarette as alternate of cigarette one thing keep in mind that the users should also be well aware of its negative impact on human health in long time use adding that instead of smoke, the inventor, Hon Lik, a Chinese chemist and engineer, found a substitute in vapour in 2003. He further said the e-cigarette holds a battery, a vaporiser and a cartridge filled with liquid nicotine adding that by taking a drag heats the liquid, turning it into a nicotine-filled vapour.