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e-waste: Rare Earth Elements, New Toxic Substances in Cigarettes and Electronic Cigarettes.

Author: de Granda-Orive

Year Published: 2020

Summary

Introduction:
This text is an editorial from the Archive of Bronchopneumology that discusses the presence of rare earth elements (REE) in cigarettes and electronic cigarettes (CE) as new toxic substances. The authors explain how the use of technology and electronic devices has increased the levels of REE in the environment, which can now be found in cigarettes and CE. They also discuss the health effects of REE and the importance of regulating their use in consumer products.

Key points:

* The text discusses the presence of REE in cigarettes and CE as new toxic substances.
* REE are used in the production of electronic devices and have become more prevalent in the environment due to increased use of technology.
* Cigarettes and CE can accumulate REE, which can be harmful to human health.
* The text cites several studies that analyzed the levels of REE in cigarettes and CE.
* The authors conclude that the humo del cigarrillo is a significant source of metals pesados, while CE are a potential source of REE.
* The text also mentions that fumar en espacios cerrados se asocia con niveles elevados de partículas en suspensión menores de 2,5 μm (PM 2,5), cerio, lantano, cadmio y talio, which can lead to respiratory symptoms in adolescents and children.
* The text highlights the importance of regulating the use of REE in consumer products.

Main message:
The main message of the text is the importance of regulating the use of REE in consumer products, particularly in cigarettes and CE. The authors argue that the accumulation of REE in these products can be harmful to human health and that regulations are necessary to protect consumers. The text highlights the need for further research on the health effects of REE and the importance of adopting strategies to manage REE waste. Overall, the text emphasizes the need for a global approach to regulating REE in consumer products to protect public health.

Citation

de Granda-Orive JI, García-Quero C. e-waste: Rare Earth Elements, New Toxic Substances in Cigarettes and Electronic Cigarettes. Archivos de bronconeumologia. 2020;56(8):477-478. doi:10.1016/j.arbres.2019.10.018
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