Vaping refers to the use of electronic devices to inhale aerosolized substances. While often used interchangeably with "e-cigarettes," "vaping" can encompass a broader range of devices and practices.
Vaping vs. E-Cigarettes: Is There a Difference?
In common usage and regulatory contexts, the terms are largely synonymous. Both fall under the FDA's definition of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS). [1][2]
Some distinctions that exist:
- E-cigarettes: Often refers to prefilled pod systems like JUUL, Vuse, Blu
- Vaping: May refer specifically to customizable, refillable devices (tank systems, box mods) [1][2]
Device Types
Tank Systems
Refillable devices with larger e-liquid reservoirs and customizable settings. Users can adjust airflow, wattage, and choose from hundreds of e-liquid flavors. [3][4]
Box Mods
Larger, more powerful devices with:
- Variable voltage/wattage
- Temperature control
- Larger batteries
- Advanced chip sets for customization [3][4]
Rebuildable Atomizers (RBA)
Devices where users build their own coils and wicks:
- RDA (Rebuildable Dripping Atomizer): User manually drips e-liquid onto the coil
- RTA (Rebuildable Tank Atomizer): Includes a tank to hold e-liquid [3][4]
Heat-Not-Burn (HNB)
Devices that heat tobacco rather than burning it:
- IQOS (Philip Morris International): Heats real tobacco sticks
- glo (British American Tobacco): Heating technology
- Produces nicotine-containing aerosol with fewer harmful chemicals than smoke [5][6]
Health Considerations
Potential Benefits
- May reduce harm compared to combustible cigarettes
- No tobacco combustion = fewer harmful chemicals [7][8]
Potential Risks
- Not risk-free; contains nicotine and other chemicals
- Long-term health effects still being studied
- Youth should not use any nicotine products [1][7]
See Also
References
[1] CDC - E-Cigarettes: Basics
[2] FDA - Vaporizers, E-Cigarettes, and ENDS
[3] Vaping Community - Device Types
[4] E-Cigarette Forum - Box Mods and Tank Systems
[5] Philip Morris International - IQOS
[6] FDA - Heat-Not-Burn Tobacco Products
[7] Public Health England - E-Cigarette Evidence
[8] Royal College of Physicians - Nicotine Without Smoke