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What's in your e-cigarette?

E-cigarettes, also called vapes, aren't without risks. They can contain substances that may be unsafe.

E-cigs are filled with more than flavor

Benzene, a chemical found naturally in gasoline and known to raise the risk of leukemia.

Diacetyl, a chemical flavoring linked to a serious disease known as popcorn lung.

Heavy metals, such as nickel, tin and lead.

Nicotine, an addictive drug that can harm the brains of kids and young adults.

Other cancer-causing chemicals, such as formaldehyde.

Propylene glycol, a food additive also used to make antifreeze and paint solvent.

Ultrafine particles, which can be inhaled deeply into the lungs, harming your health.

Need help quitting? Ask your doctor about resources or medications that can help you.

Reviewed 9/3/2025

American Cancer Society. "Benzene and Cancer Risk." https://www.cancer.org/healthy/cancer-causes/chemicals/benzene.html.
American Lung Association. "What's in an E-Cigarette?" https://www.lung.org/quit-smoking/e-cigarettes-vaping/whats-in-an-e-cigarette.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "E-Cigarette Use Among Youth." https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/e-cigarettes/youth.html.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Vaping and Quitting." https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/e-cigarettes/quitting.html.
SmokeFree.gov. "What We Know About Electronic Cigarettes." https://smokefree.gov/quit-smoking/ecigs-menthol-dip/ecigs.