(RightIsRight.co) – Given the vast array of chemicals across the multitude of vape products, research has revealed that the chemicals used in the production of vapes may become highly toxic when heated and inhaled.
Vaping devices operate by heating a liquid mixture that includes vegetable glycerin, propylene glycol, nicotine, and various flavorings to create an aerosol inhaled by users.
Studies have identified that certain fruit-flavored vapes, such as those with strawberry, melon, and blueberry flavors, generate harmful volatile carbonyls during heating.
These substances are linked to serious health issues, which include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiovascular disease, and various cancers.
Alternatively, a study used artificial intelligence to examine the chemical makeup of 180 vape flavors and assess their decomposition when heated. Published in Scientific Reports, the study identified 127 “acutely toxic” chemicals, 153 “health hazards,” and 225 “irritants” produced by these vapes.
The AI analysis indicated that nearly all tested flavors contained at least one component labeled as a “health hazard,” with several flavors indicating multiple toxic chemicals. This was true for vapes both with and without nicotine content.
The researchers at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) University of Medicine and Health Sciences in Dublin highlighted a significant public health concern for the UK’s 4.5 million vapers and stressed the need for “enhanced restrictions” on vape flavors.
In response to these concerns, the UK government announced plans in January to ban disposable vapes and restrict sweet and fruity flavors.
Professor Donal O’Shea, the study’s lead author and a chemistry professor at RCSI, advocated for the removal of all flavors from vapes to prevent potential health crises.
“It is plausible that we are on the cusp of a new wave of chronic diseases that will emerge 15 to 20 years from now due to these exposures.”
The study underscored the importance of understanding the long-term impacts of flavored vapes on public health, especially among teenagers and young adults who do not smoke.
“Without comprehensive regulation, as we try to treat the nicotine addictions of older tobacco smokers, there is a substantial risk of transferring new health issues to younger generations.”
The Department of Health and Social Care voiced a stern warning in light of these findings and advised non-smokers, particularly children, against vaping.
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