Quit smoking with electronic cigarettes?

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Q. I have tried to quit smoking many times without success. Are electronic cigarettes a good way to help break the habit?

A. Electronic cigarettes (or e-cigarettes) have gained popularity over the past few years, but their effectiveness in helping smokers quit and their long-term safety remain uncertain. E-cigarettes use a battery-powered heating element to vaporize a nicotine liquid, which is then inhaled like cigarette smoke. E-cigarettes are now available in a variety of styles with added flavors in the liquid.