Main and side stream effects of electronic cigarettes

Introduction:
This article reviews and discusses the potential health, safety, and environmental effects of electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) usage. The study highlights the variability in the composition of e-cigarette flavorings and device configurations, and the potential formation of new toxic compounds during the heating process. The article also discusses the lack of long-term epidemiological and toxicological studies on the subject.

Key Points:

* E-cigarettes are non-combustible tobacco products that heat e-liquid to create an aerosol that is inhaled by the user.
* The chemical composition of the aerosol may be different from that of e-liquid, as new toxic compounds may be formed during the heating process.
* There is a high variability in the composition of e-cigarette flavorings and device configurations.
* Further research is needed to fully explore the potential health, safety, and environmental effects of e-cigarette usage.
* Improper disposal of e-cigarette cartridges, batteries, and related materials could result in nicotine exposure to children, adults, and animals, to soil and water contamination.
* E-cigarettes produce VOCs, particulate matter (PM), nicotine and tobacco derivatives, heavy metals, and flavors, which can have negative health effects.
* There is a lack of long-term epidemiological and toxicological studies on the potential health, safety, and environmental effects of e-cigarette usage.

Main Message:
The widespread use of e-cigarettes raises several questions about their potential health, safety, and environmental effects. Further research is needed to fully explore these questions and provide evidence-based answers. Proper disposal and management of e-cigarettes should be followed in order to avoid future environmental impacts. E-cigarette manufacturers and retailers should manage unused or expired e-cigarettes and nicotine juice solutions as hazardous wastes upon disposal, due to their large volume. additionally, e-cigarette users should be aware of the potential risks associated with e-cigarette usage, such as accidental fire hazards, explosions, and the danger of e-cigarettes becoming a gateway to consumption of illegal drugs or to combustible cigarettes.

Papaefstathiou, E., M. Stylianou, and a. agapiou. “Main and Side Stream Effects of Electronic Cigarettes.” Journal of Environmental Management 238 (May 2019): 10–17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2019.01.030.