Objective

To identify the most recent literature on electronic cigarettes (EC) available in the market, in order to characterize their composition, current use, health risks associated with their use, as well as their possible use as smoking cessation therapy. To generate a greater understanding of EC and their importance in the field of public health.

Materials and Methods

A literature review was performed in indexed databases using MeSH and DeCS terms, finding 55 articles that met the inclusion criteria and five additional reviews of companies or governmental bodies.

Results

The diversity of the types and components of electronic cigarettes has increased awareness of their use. So far, the increase in EC consumption worldwide has led many organizations to issue concepts and review different types of studies that show evidence of a discrepancy between what is offered and what is presented. Consequently, it is clear that a definitive concept of their use cannot be issued.

Conclusions

The increase in the use of electronic cigarettes worldwide has triggered alarms on the regulation of contents, presentations, effects on health, and possible recommendations for their use, making it necessary to better review the issue in order to give a clear concept to the public.