It is hard to imagine a world without technology. In fact, one could argue that technological advances define historic periods. The Gutenberg Press brought about the Renaissance, the steam engine defined the industrial revolution and now the Internet will define what many call the information revolution.

As with these historic accomplishments, every advancement of technology was developed to improve the quality of life. Technology makes our lives easier and safer.

The cell phone made communication easier, the seat belt made transportation safer and now electric cigarettes have been developed in an effort to improve the lives of those who smoke and those who associate with them.

Electric cigarettes are devices that deliver small doses of nicotine through a small tube. Several manufacturers have designed electric cigarettes to resemble actual cigarettes. It is used just like any other cigarette except there is no smoke released by the device conquering the number one concern of non-smokers: second hand smoke.

A smoker simply buys a kit, which includes a rechargeable battery, and a container that holds liquid nicotine. Users inhale the solution that is vaporized in the tube. Users can then purchase refills as needed. This can translate into great savings depending on use.

Cost savings pale in comparison to the potential health benefits from the use of an electric cigarette as opposed to a traditional one. The electric cigarette eliminates the carcinogens inhaled in tobacco-based cigarettes, drastically reducing the likelihood of getting lung cancer – the number one cause of death amongst smokers. A greater cost savings is obtained if you take into consideration these possible health care costs usually associated with smokers such as higher health insurance premiums.

Of course many will also use this technology to help overcome addiction to cigarettes, providing a new strategy towards quitting.