Comparison of biomarkers of exposure among US adult smokers, users of electronic nicotine delivery systems, dual users and nonusers, 2018-2019.

Introduction:
This article presents a study comparing biomarkers of exposure (BOEs) among US adult smokers, users of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), dual users, and nonusers. The study uses data from Wave 5 of the Population assessment of Tobacco and health (PaTh) Study and adjusts for demographics to compare BOEs of nicotine, metals, tobacco-specific nitrosamines, and smoking-related volatile organic compounds. The key points summarize the study design, major findings, and implications of the research.

Key Points:

* The study utilizes data from Wave 5 of the PaTh Study, focusing on BOEs of nicotine, metals, tobacco-specific nitrosamines, and smoking-related volatile organic compounds.
* Researchers compare BOEs between US adult smokers, ENDS users, dual users, and nonusers, adjusting for demographics such as age, sex, race/ethnicity, and BMI.
* The research reveals that exclusive ENDS use is associated with much lower exposure to most harmful chemicals related to smoking-induced diseases compared to smoking.
* BOE levels in dual users are directly related to their cigarette consumption.
* The study highlights the potential for ENDS to reduce exposure to toxicants compared to smoking, although it is not without risks.
* BOEs were lower in ENDS users than in smokers for most non-nicotine biomarkers, but there were exceptions for some metals.
* The research emphasizes the need for further investigation of other toxicants and biomarkers of potential harm, such as markers of inflammation, to inform reductions in health risks associated with switching from smoking cigarettes to ENDS.

Main Message:
This study further supports the potential for ENDS to serve as harm reduction tools for cigarette smokers by exposing users to lower levels of toxicants compared to combustible cigarettes. however, it also highlights the importance of monitoring and addressing the potential risks associated with ENDS use. The findings provide valuable evidence for regulatory bodies and policymakers to consider when making decisions regarding the use and availability of ENDS products.

holt NM, Shiffman S, Black Ra, Goldenson NI, Sembower Ma, Oldham MJ. Comparison of biomarkers of exposure among US adult smokers, users of electronic nicotine delivery systems, dual users and nonusers, 2018-2019. Scientific reports. 2023;13(1):7297. doi:10.1038/s41598-023-34427-x