The world now acknowledges the dangers of cigarette smoking. There are quite a few diseases associated with this past time, from various forms of cancer to respiratory diseases and pulmonary complications. Of the many smokers who attempt to quit, only a fraction do so successfully. The development of the e-cigarette has benefited millions of people around the world by helping them to quit smoking.

Although the first electronic cigarette was invented in the 1960s, it was never mass marketed. The modern version was developed by a 52 year old pharmacist by the name of Hon Lik in Beijing, China in 2003. Prompted by the death of his father from lung cancer, Lik perfected the device and introduced it to his employer, Golden Dragon Holdings. The company refined the product and distributed it under a new company named Ruyan. The e-cigarette is composed of an atomizer, heating coil, battery and reservoir. The atomizer heats up the liquid which is vapourised when the smoker inhales the electronic cigarette.

The inventor of the e-cigarette hoped to give smokers an alternative to the carcinogenic tobacco product, and a chance to safely enjoy smoking. In 2000, the idea of utilising the piezoelectric ultrasound-emitting element as a means of vapourising a pressurised stream of liquid containing nicotine diluted in a propylene glycol solution was revolutionary. Hon Lik started his project in 2000; he used the concept of an ultrasound element which vapourises a liquid containing a nicotine and propylene glycol mixture. Lik was the innovator who developed the nicotine/propylene glycol based e-liquid that is contained in almost all e-cigarettes. These inventions and innovations would become the amazing foundation of the current-day electronic cigarettes.

The history of e-cigarettes is one of innovation and invention by a man who hoped to make a difference in the lives of millions. His goal was to offer a healthier alternative for smokers everywhere. Out of tragedy came an invention which is saving lives and making a difference.