October 30, 2012 / Forbes Tech / — Electronic cigarettes have recently been marketed and promoted as a “safe” alternative to traditional tobacco smoking, but based on recent research, this popular and growing trend could be just as harmful to your lungs and overall health. It is estimated that nearly 700,000 people currently use these electronic pens in order to quit smoking.

Electronic cigarettes deliver nicotine through a vapor as opposed to smoke. Although no combustion is involved, the nicotine is still derived from tobacco. This method of delivery has been thought to be potentially less harmful than smoking tobacco. The devices are imported from China and their nicotine content is currently not regulated prior to sale or distribution.