Passive exposure to pollutants from conventional cigarettes and new electronic smoking devices (IQOS, e-cigarette) in passenger cars

Introduction:
This text provides an analysis of a study examining the effects of conventional cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and the IQOS smoking device on indoor air quality. The study measures the levels of various pollutants and particles in the air during the use of these products in passenger cars.

Key Points:

* The study measures the levels of fine and ultrafine particles, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), aldehydes, and ketones in the air during the use of conventional cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and the IQOS smoking device in passenger cars.
* The use of e-cigarettes and the IQOS smoking device resulted in increased levels of propylene glycol, a chemical used in e-cigarette liquids. The levels of propylene glycol exceeded the German indoor health precaution guide value in some cases.
* The use of e-cigarettes and the IQOS smoking device also resulted in increased levels of nicotine in the air. The levels of nicotine were comparable for both products, but were significantly lower than those measured during the use of conventional cigarettes.
* The use of conventional cigarettes resulted in the highest levels of pollutants and particles in the air. The levels of PM2.5, a measure of fine particulate matter, were significantly higher during the use of conventional cigarettes compared to e-cigarettes and the IQOS smoking device.
* The study did not find a correlation between the different ventilation conditions and the VOC concentrations in the car interior.
* The IQOS smoking device uses heated tobacco instead of burning it, which results in lower levels of harmful chemicals being released into the air compared to conventional cigarettes.
* The study highlights the importance of ventilation in reducing the levels of pollutants and particles in the air during smoking.

Main Message:
The study demonstrates that the use of conventional cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and the IQOS smoking device all have an impact on indoor air quality, with conventional cigarettes resulting in the highest levels of pollutants and particles. The use of e-cigarettes and the IQOS smoking device results in increased levels of propylene glycol and nicotine in the air, but at lower levels than those measured during the use of conventional cigarettes. The study emphasizes the importance of ventilation in reducing the levels of pollutants and particles in the air during smoking. Overall, the study provides valuable information for regulators and policymakers regarding the potential health impacts of these products on indoor air quality.

Schober, Wolfgang, Ludwig Fembacher, Adela Frenzen, and Hermann Fromme. “Passive Exposure to Pollutants from Conventional Cigarettes and New Electronic Smoking Devices (IQOS, e-Cigarette) in Passenger Cars.” International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health 222, no. 3 (April 2019): 486–93. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijheh.2019.01.003.