Harvard professor on e-cigarettes: "Safer does not mean safe"

New questions are being raised about the safety of e-cigarettes and vaping.

E-cigarettes are often looked at as safer than cigarettes, but a Harvard Medical professor says not so fast. E-cigarettes may be safer, but that doesn't make them safe.

Suraya Jackson of Needham put down her menthol for e-cigs, because she believes it helps her consume less nicotine.

"I used to smoke probably like like a half a pack a day," said Jackson. "I think they [e-cigs] are a compromise, I think they are stepping down in safety and wellness and health. If the cigs are really bad then you taper yourself down."

>> RELATED: Lawsuit challenges FDA delay of e-cigarette review

In an op-ed in the New York Times about vaping products, Harvard professor Joseph Allen wrote,

"E-cigs are safer than cigarettes, no question. But "safer" does not mean "safe." And all e-cig users need to be informed about the risks of inhaling these chemicals."

Health experts say the science is still developing for the full health impact of vaping, but they are urging people not to just focus on the nicotine.

Professor Allen went on to say, "nicotine isn’t the only thing e-cigs deliver; they also deliver formaldehyde, a carcinogen."

The Central Massachusetts Tobacco-Free Community Partnership, a smoke-free advocacy group, says vaping products still raise many questions when it comes to the full health impact.

>> PREVIOUS: Local doctor warns parents of dangers of Juul e-cigarettes

"Remember these products are not regulated by the FDA so any company can put whatever they want on the label," said Tina Grosowsky. "The Juul product is especially potent in nicotine and when an adolescent gets a hit of the nicotine it really impacts the brain."

Tobacco-Free Community Partnership says the FDA won't make regulation decisions until there is more research.

>> PREVIOUS: Growing concern about 'juuling' among teens in local schools

As for Jackson, she says she feels like she's getting enough information to keep vaping, especially if it helps her kick her cigarette habit.

>> RELATED: Franklin man thankful e-cigarette explosion didn't cause injuries

Cox Media Group