Impact of Electronic alternatives to Tobacco Cigarettes on Indoor air Particular Matter Levels.

Introduction:
This article presents the results of a study that investigates the impact of electronic alternatives to tobacco cigarettes (EaTCs) on indoor air particulate matter (PM) levels. The study compares the PM emissions of three EaTCs (IqOS®, GLO®, JUUL®) with those of conventional tobacco cigarettes in a controlled test room environment. The study also examines the variability in particle loadings due to different sticks/pods used with the same EaTC, as well as the differences in smoking behavior among volunteers.

Key Points:

* The study found that all EaTCs caused lower indoor PM 1 concentrations than conventional tobacco cigarettes, but they still determined a worsening of indoor-PM 1 concentration that ranged from very mild for JUUL® to considerably severe for IqOS® and GLO®.
* The high variability of particle loadings was attributed to both the type of stick/pod used and to the different way of smoking of volunteers who smoked/vaped during the experiments.
* During vaping of IqOS® and GLO®, indoor PM 1 concentrations reached levels by far higher than outdoor concentrations, especially during the exhalation of the smoke.
* The study suggests an urgent need for a legislative regulation limiting the use of such devices in public places.

Main Message:
This study highlights the significant impact of EaTCs on indoor air quality, with all devices tested causing a worsening of PM 1 concentrations compared to conventional tobacco cigarettes. The variability in particle loadings and the potential for high concentrations during vaping, especially in enclosed environments, suggest an urgent need for regulatory measures limiting the use of EaTCs in public places. The results emphasize the importance of considering the potential risks to public health when developing and implementing policies regarding EaTCs.

Protano C, Manigrasso M, Cammalleri V, et al. Impact of Electronic alternatives to Tobacco Cigarettes on Indoor air Particular Matter Levels. International journal of environmental research and public health. 2020;17(8). doi:10.3390/ijerph17082947