Illegal disposable e-cigarettes more dangerous than cigarettes, study shows
A recent study conducted by the University of California (UC) Davis has shed light on the potential dangers of illegal disposable e-cigarettes, also known as vapes. According to the research, these illicit vapes may pose a greater risk to users than traditional cigarettes due to high levels of toxic heavy metals.
The study, published in the journal ACS Central Science, focused on three popular vape brands – ELF Bar, Flum Pebble, and Esco – that are not authorized by the FDA for use in the United States but are widely available from retailers. Researchers used a specialized instrument to analyze the puffs from these devices and found hazardous levels of several toxic heavy metals, including lead, nickel, and antimony.
These metals are classified as carcinogens and have been linked to various types of cancer, such as skin, lung, and kidney cancer, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In fact, all three brands tested in the study contained levels of these metals that exceeded cancer risk limits, with one brand exposing users to as much lead as smoking 19 packs of cigarettes.
One of the most alarming findings of the study was the discovery of leaded copper alloys in one of the devices, which leached dangerous levels of lead into the e-liquid. Lead exposure poses serious health risks, especially to children and adolescents, who are particularly vulnerable.
Dr. Daniel Sterman, director of the Pulmonary Oncology Program at the NYU Langone Perlmutter Cancer Center, emphasized the health risks associated with vaping, including lung diseases like asthma, COPD, and lung cancer. While it is challenging to establish a direct link between disposable vapes and cancer, Dr. Sterman recommends strict regulation of these devices, especially for individuals under 21 years old.
Despite the concerning findings of the study, there are limitations to consider. Only three disposable e-cigarette brands were tested out of the hundreds available on the market, leaving a significant gap in knowledge about the metal content of untested products. This highlights the need for further research and regulation of disposable vapes to protect public health.
In response to the study, a spokesperson for ELFBAR, one of the brands tested, refuted the results, claiming that they had stopped shipments in May 2023 due to ongoing trademark litigation. The company believes that the devices tested in the study are counterfeit and not genuine ELFBAR products.
As the use of electronic cigarettes continues to rise, with adult usage increasing from 4.5% in 2019 to 6.5% in 2023, it is crucial to address the potential health risks associated with these devices. With proper regulation and public awareness, we can work towards protecting the health and well-being of individuals who use disposable vapes.
