Emerging Chemicals of health Concern in Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems.

Introduction:
This article examines the presence of emerging chemicals of health concern (ECCs) in electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), specifically focusing on phthalates, phenolic compounds, and organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs). The study aims to identify and quantify these ECCs in various components of ENDS, including refill liquids, tanks/cartridges, atomizers, drip tips/mouthpieces, and sealing materials. The results of this study will contribute to addressing information gaps and developing evidence-based standards for the regulatory control of ECCs in ENDS products.

Key Points:

1. The study analyzed 54 e-liquid samples, 20 coil samples, 40 cartridges/tanks, 41 drip tips/mouthpieces, and 17 sealing materials from various ENDS brands.
2. Phthalates were the most prevalent chemicals detected in all samples, with DMP having the highest detection rate in e-liquids, coils, cartridges/tanks, drip tips/mouthpieces, and sealing materials.
3. among OPFRs, TEP had the highest detection rate in e-liquids, while TDCPP had the highest concentration in coils, cartridges/tanks, drip tips/mouthpieces, and sealing materials.
4. Parabens were the second most prevalent chemicals detected in drip tips/mouthpieces and sealing materials, with methyl paraben having the highest detection rate in both sample types.
5. Blank-corrected percentiles and maximum values were presented for e-liquids, coils, cartridges/tanks, drip tips/mouthpieces, and sealing materials due to varying detection rates of analytes.
6. The study highlights the need for further research to understand the negative health effects and potential exposure risks associated with ECCs in ENDS.
7. The findings contribute to the development of evidence-based standards for the regulatory control of ECCs in ENDS products.

Main Message:
The study underscores the importance of investigating and regulating ECCs in ENDS, as they are widely present in various components of these devices. Phthalates and OPFRs were detected at high levels, raising concerns about potential health risks for ENDS users. The findings emphasize the need for manufacturers to minimize or eliminate ECCs from their products and for regulatory authorities to establish specific guidelines for ECCs in ENDS. This study serves as a foundation for future research and regulatory efforts to ensure the safety and public health impact of ENDS.

Wei B, O’Connor RJ, Goniewicz ML, hyland a. Emerging Chemicals of health Concern in Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems. Chemical research in toxicology. 2020;33(10):2637-2646. doi:10.1021/acs.chemrestox.0c00281