Ambulatory Puff Topography of Participants in a Weeklong Natural Environment Observation Study

GLORIA MBAKA, Edward Hensel, Logan Kelly, Leo Holman, Nathan Eddingsaas, Risa Robinson, Rochester Institute of Technology

     Abstract Number: 585
     Working Group: Health-Related Aerosols

Abstract
A weeklong observation study of participants who use electronic cigarettes is in progress. Candidates who pass the IRB approved subject screening protocol are enrolled in a study which queries their behavioral response using ecological momentary assessment, samples biomarkers of exposure and health effect, and monitors their puff topography. Each participant is provided with one or more custom wireless Personal Use Monitors designed to accommodate their own-choice ecig. Puffing data is recorded for seven days. Data is downloaded from each monitor upon return to the lab, and data is analyzed to quantify puffing behavior as a function to tobacco product characteristics. As of press time, candidates have been identified who choose to use Hyde Edge, Hyde Disposable, Geekbar Pulse, Geekbar Pulse X, Juul, and various Lost Mary ecigs. Puffing behavior consisting of mean puff flow rate, duration, puff count, and mean cumulative aerosol consumption is reported for participants enrolled during the first 12 months of a five year study. Preliminary results will quantify the effect of product characteristics such as ecig brand, eliquid flavor, and emissions yield on commonly accepted puff topography parameters. Results will inform regulatory guidelines on product characteristics for ecigs and eliquids.