Does vaping affect indoor air quality?

Introduction:
This text discusses the impact of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) on indoor air quality and the potential health risks associated with "passive vaping." The study highlights the presence of various harmful substances released during the vaporization process, including particulate matter, nicotine, and other organic compounds. It also explores the similarities and differences between passive vaping and secondhand smoke exposure.

Key Points:

* E-cigarettes release undesired substances that can affect indoor air quality, including propylene glycol, glycerol, flavorings, and solvent impurities.
* Thermal decomposition during the evaporation process generates carcinogenic and irritating chemicals, such as formaldehyde, benzene, glycidol, acrolein, and acetaldehyde.
* Indoor air concentrations of fine (PM2.5) and ultrafine particles (UFP) increase when e-cigarettes are used, comparable to restaurant smoking levels.
* Exposure to these particles can lead to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and no safe level of exposure has been established.
* In 2019, a deadly outbreak of lung injuries associated with vaping (EVALI) resulted in more than 50 deaths and 2500 hospitalizations.
* Vitamin E acetate, an illicit additive in THC vaping products, has been identified as a key factor associated with EVALI.
* The German Indoor Hygiene Commission has concluded that e-cigarettes contribute toward indoor air pollution and can endanger the health of third parties.
* Employees in the entertainment industry exposed to propylene glycol-containing aerosols suffer from respiratory irritations and restricted lung function more often than unexposed persons.

Main Message:
The use of e-cigarettes significantly impacts indoor air quality and poses potential health risks to bystanders, similar to passive smoking. The release of harmful substances, such as nicotine, particulate matter, and toxic organic compounds, can cause respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The text emphasizes the importance of implementing smoke-free measures that have been proven effective against cigarette smoking for vaping as well. Therefore, it is crucial for regulatory authorities to consider these findings to protect public health and promote safer indoor environments.

Destaillats H, Singer B, Salthammer T. Does vaping affect indoor air quality? Indoor air. 2020;30(5):793-794. doi:10.1111/ina.12663