AAAR 35th Annual Conference October 17 - October 21, 2016 Oregon Convention Center Portland, Oregon, USA
Abstract View
Key Parameters Affecting E-cigarette Emissions and Their Impacts on Indoor Exposures and Health Effects
Mohamad Sleiman, Jennifer Logue, V. Nahuel Montesinos, Marta Litter, Marion Russell, Lara Gundel, HUGO DESTAILLATS, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
Abstract Number: 396 Working Group: Electronic Cigarettes - Health Effects
Abstract In recent years, use of electronic cigarettes has grown exponentially. While some advocates embrace this new development as a harm reduction approach to curb consumption of conventional (combustion) cigarettes, most tobacco control scientists warn about potential negative impacts to public health associated with vaping in indoor environments. We identified key parameters influencing emissions from e-cigarette consumption (“vaping”) and their impacts on the formation of harmful emissions. The levels of carbonyls and volatile organic compounds in mainstream vapor were measured during e-cigarette use under controlled conditions. Levels and patterns of non-users’ exposures were estimated by measuring concentrations of nine toxicants in vapor exhaled by four users, followed by modelling that incorporated ventilation rates, vaping frequency and occupancy. We also monitored particulate emissions and deposition. The results of this study can inform decision makers on the need for regulating use of e-cigarettes indoors. Since harmful emissions originate from heating the common constituents present in every e-liquid (solvents such as propylene glycol and glycerin), protection of users from these undesired byproducts may be achieved by improving e-cigarette designs to reduce coil and vapor temperatures. Protection of non-users is most effective by restricting e-cigarette use in indoor environments.