Debut of New BU Research Site Highlights SPH Faculty.

The uncertain risks — and potential rewards — at the heart of the controversy surrounding electronic cigarettes are explored in a multimedia story featured as the centerpiece of the University’s new Research website.

Michael Siegel, a professor of community health sciences, addressed the potential use of e-cigarettes as a tool for smokers who wish to quit using traditional tobacco products. In a wide-ranging Q&A, Siegel says, “The scientific research conducted so far suggests that electronic cigarettes are much safer than regular cigarettes, and that in particular, they carry a greatly reduced risk of lung cancer, other cancers, and chronic obstructive lung disease. Evidence presented just recently suggests that they also likely present a lower risk of heart disease. We need more research to understand whether there may be long-term adverse effects. But what we can say for sure is that they are much safer than the real cigarettes.”

Leonard Glantz, a professor of health law, bioethics and human rights, discussed the concept of risk reduction and how public health often leans toward encouraging behaviors that lead to lowered risks as achievable steps on the path toward possible risk elimination.

The Research website was established to showcase the depth and breadth of research at the University and will be an information source for policy makers, other universities, potential students and faculty, federal agencies, funders, and mainstream media.