One of the issues that always comes up in a debate about vapor is the lack of hard evidence as to its effects. Even as vapors we agree that electronic cigarettes need to be more thoroughly researched so that not only we as users, but the community at large, will have more facts in hand. We recently came across a study published in ‘Nicotine and Tobacco Research’ that focused on the second hand effects of electronic cigarettes. We are happy to be able to share some positive findings with you today.
They Don’t Need the Gas Mask If You’re Vaping
The researchers took two approaches to studying the effects of vapor. The first approach involved them using a smoking machine to trap vapor in an enclosed area. The second test involved real people. Some who smoked cigarettes in an enclosed area, and others who vaped in identical areas. Once the smokers and vapers were done the air was tested for chemicals. Once they had enough vapor or smoke to test, they took readings to measure nicotine levels, carbon monoxide, “volatile organic compounds”, and more. The results of this test found “that e-cigarettes are a source of secondhand exposure to nicotine but not to combustion toxicants.” The exact same tests with tobacco cigarettes found carbon monoxide and all of the other usual suspects that come with tobacco smoke.
To be fair we have to point out that the study would obviously not find toxins associated with combustion, the burning process, in vapor as nothing is burned. It is still great to see that the study did not find anything else floating around in air mixed with vapor that is toxic. While those who do not indulge will not be happy with the nicotine that was in the air, the study did report that “The average concentration of nicotine resulting from smoking tobacco cigarettes was 10 times higher than from e-cigarettes .“ On top of that you have to take in to account that the vapor was trapped in a chamber and then studied. The chamber was not the size of your average room, restaurant, bar, or outside area. These are areas that many vaping bans include, which makes this research very helpful for those sticking up for vapor rights in places that have not yet put limitations on a product that is still not 100% understood, scientifically speaking at least. The most important outcome of this study is that there is now more evidence that shows exactly how different second hand vapor is from second hand smoke. Far less nicotine and no traceable levels of the stuff that gives you cancer is good news for all of us who appreciate a good vape. It’s also good news for those who aren’t fans of vapor, whether they like it or not. It is important for information like this to be known. Having facts to back up what most of us already know about vapor is key to acceptance.