Why am I being warned about potential exposure to chemicals in e-cigarettes?
- E-cigarettes typically contain nicotine and other chemicals that are on the Proposition 65 list because they can cause birth defects and other reproductive harm.
- Proposition 65 requires businesses to determine if they must provide a warning about significant exposure to listed chemicals.
What are e-cigarettes?
- E-cigarettes, also known as electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), are devices that emit an aerosol containing nicotine and/or other chemicals that is inhaled by users. They include e‑cigarettes, e‑cigars, e-pipes, e-hookahs, and vape pens.
- E-cigarettes typically use a battery to heat a liquid solution called an e-liquid, while some e-cigarettes heat solid substances such as nicotine salts. This produces an aerosol that can be inhaled without burning tobacco.
What chemicals do e-cigarettes contain or generate?
How does exposure to chemicals from e-cigarettes occur?
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- During pregnancy, nicotine and other chemicals from e-cigarettes can pass from mother to baby.
How can I reduce my exposure to chemicals from e-cigarettes?
- Do not use e-cigarettes. Avoid breathing in air containing e-cigarette aerosol.
- Do not allow children, including adolescents, to use e-cigarettes, or spend time in places where e-cigarettes are used.
- Do not use e-cigarettes to quit tobacco smoking. They are not currently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an aid to help you quit smoking. Choose FDA-approved cessation aids to help you quit smoking.
- Choose venues that are free of e-cigarette use. In California, the use of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, is not allowed in workplaces, public places, restaurants, bars, and state-regulated gambling venues.
For more information:
General Fact Sheets and Resources
- California Department of Public Health (CDPH), California Tobacco Control Branch
- US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Office of the US Surgeon General
- World Health Organization (WHO)
Proposition 65
- California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA)
Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA)- Proposition 65: Background
- Proposition 65: The List of Chemicals
- Proposition 65: Fact Sheets
