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E-cigarette chemicals linked to respiratory disease
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The chemical flavoring in e-cigarettes has been linked to an increase in respiratory diseases. The chemical, diacetyl, was found in 75 percent of e-cigarette flavorings, which were tested by researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Other potentially harmful chemicals were also found in flavors such as cotton candy, fruity squirts and cupcake.
The dangers of diacetyl were first recognized in workers from popcorn factories; it led to respiratory diseases and coined the term ‘Popcorn lung.’ The Occupational Safety and Health Administration have warned workers about the dangers of diacetyl for its ability to increase the risk of respiratory diseases.
Lead author, Dr. Joseph Allen, said, “Recognition of the hazards associated with inhaling flavoring chemicals started with ‘Popcorn Lung’ over a decade ago. However, diacetyl and other related flavoring chemicals are used in many other flavors beyond butter-flavored popcorn, including fruit flavors, alcohol flavors, and, we learned in our study, candy flavored e-cigarettes.”
Popularity of e-cigarettes is on the rise, with over 7,000 different flavors and liquid refills to choose from. Even though this form of smoking seems to be popular, data is lacking on the potential health consequences they may pose. Currently, e-cigarettes are not regulated, but the FDA proposed to have them under the section that includes tobacco and nicotine products.
Read more at http://www.belmarrahealth.com/e-cigarette-chemicals-linked-to-respiratory-disease/
