Lead Story

Biomarkers of metal exposure in adolescent e-cigarette users: correlations with vaping frequency and flavouring 

Tobacco Control

Various metals have been identified in e-cigarettes and, as their use among youth has increased in the last decade, this is of public health concern. In this study, researchers utilized a national sample of youth who use e-cigarettes and associated between lead, cadmium, and uranium levels and use patterns. Youth who reported intermittent or frequent use had higher levels of lead than occasional users, and frequent users also had higher levels of uranium. In addition, when evaluating by flavor types, sweet flavor e-cigarette use was associated with higher uranium levels than menthol/mint flavors. Given the potential deleterious health effects of these metals, particularly in youth, these findings support the need for regulations and public health interventions to target youth populations and minimize e-cigarette use.

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