The association of e-cigarette use with exposure to nickel and chromium: A preliminary study of non-invasive biomarkers

Introduction:
This text summarizes a scientific study on the association between e-cigarette use and exposure to nickel (Ni) and chromium (Cr) in e-cigarette users from Maryland. The study aimed to establish the link between metals in e-cigarette aerosol and metal internal dose in e-cigarette users. It measured Ni and Cr biomarker levels in urine, saliva, and exhaled breath condensate (EBC) and compared them to corresponding metal levels in e-liquid samples collected from the participants' devices.

Key Points:

* The study recruited 64 e-cigarette users, 50 sole users and 14 dual users.
* It collected biospecimens (urine, saliva, and EBC) and e-cigarette device samples (dispenser e-liquid, aerosol, and tank e-liquid).
* It measured Ni and Cr biomarker levels in urine, saliva, and EBC and compared them to corresponding metal levels in e-liquid samples collected from the participants' devices.
* The study found positive associations of Ni and Cr aerosol concentrations with corresponding Ni and Cr biomarker levels.
* Increased e-cigarette use and consumption were also associated with higher Ni biomarker levels.
* Metal level standards are needed to prevent involuntary metal exposure among e-cigarette users.

Main Message:
The study's main message is that e-cigarette emissions increase metal internal dose, and increased e-cigarette use and consumption are associated with higher Ni biomarker levels. The study emphasizes the need for metal level standards to prevent involuntary metal exposure among e-cigarette users. As an expert in regulatory matters, it is crucial to highlight the importance of regulating e-cigarette devices and e-liquids to ensure the safety and health of e-cigarette users. The study's findings provide valuable evidence for policymakers and regulatory agencies to consider when developing e-cigarette regulations.

Aherrera, Angela, Pablo Olmedo, Maria Grau-Perez, Stefan Tanda, Walter Goessler, Stephanie Jarmul, Rui Chen, Joanna E. Cohen, Ana M. Rule, and Ana Navas-Acien. “The Association of E-Cigarette Use with Exposure to Nickel and Chromium: A Preliminary Study of Non-Invasive Biomarkers.” Environmental Research 159 (November 2017): 313–20. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envres.2017.08.014.