Usage of Electronic Cigarettes Among Youth in the United States Ballard Brief E cigarettes are not a healthier alternative to cigarettes. They contain nicotine and many harmful ingredients that can cause cancer and heart disease. Since these products are relatively new, we don't know all E Cigarettes Are Safer, but Not Exactly Safe The New York Times Youth living in vapefree homes much less likely to use e cigs Stanton Glantz blog Infographic: Electronic Cigarettes, What is the bottom line?