Although vaping has been considered a safer option compared to smoking cigarettes, researchers now warn that regular use of e-cigarettes carries its own set of risks.
Teenagers who frequently vape may face increased exposure to harmful metals like lead and uranium, which could potentially impact brain and organ development adversely, a new study revealed.
Based on the findings published in the journal Tobacco Control, the researchers recommend the implementation of regulations and prevention initiatives specifically aimed at teenagers.
Vaping is prevalent among teens, with approximately 14% of U.S. high school students (about 2.14 million) and over 3% of middle school students (about 380,000) reporting vaping within the last month of 2022.
Earlier studies have shown that certain harmful metals are found in e-cigarette aerosols and liquids, that are particularly risky during developmental stages, leading to cognitive impairments, behavioral issues, respiratory problems, cancer, and heart disease in children.
In the latest study, researchers examined if vaping frequency and flavor correlate with potentially toxic metal levels. They used data from Wave 5 of the PATH Youth Study, analyzing responses from 1607 teens aged 13 to 17. The study included vaping flavors such as menthol or mint, fruit, sweets such as chocolate or desserts, tobacco, clove or spice, and alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks.
Among the participants, 200 teens were included in the final analysis as exclusive vapers. Their urine samples were tested for the presence of cadmium, lead, and uranium. Based on their vaping frequency, they were categorized as occasional (1–5 days/month), intermittent (6–19 days), and frequent (20+ days) vapers.
There were 65 occasional users, 45 intermittent, and 81 frequent users, and vaping frequency information was missing for 9. Regarding the flavors, 33% of vapers said they used menthol/mint flavors, while 50% preferred fruit flavors, just over 15% opted for…
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