With the increasing use of e-cigs, the question for many is, “Are e-cigs safer than cigarettes?”

With over 4,000 chemicals, including 43 carcinogenic compounds, cigarette smoking has been taking a back seat to e-cigs lately. However, after accounting for what could be hiding in eLiquid — the fluid responsible for the nicotine solution and flavoring found in e-cigs, many questions still abound.

The majority of eLiquids contain water, nicotine, flavorings, and a base. Since this liquid is not regulated by any federal authority, what can be found in eLiquid varies by company. For example, some eLiquid manufacturers use glycerin, an organic compound that is commonly found in vegetables. Others use diacetyl, which has been tied to abnormal lung function over time.

There has been reports of vaping-related illnesses recently and has become one of the biggest public health concerns of the year. The death toll from vapes has reached 34, and hundreds more have faced life-threatening sicknesses.

I think the takeaway is… while the compounds found e-cigs are generally deemed less harmful than the cancer-causing agents found in traditional cigarettes… less harmful doesn’t necessarily mean safe.