Smokers who are looking for an alternative to reduce their smoking habit have been warned to stay away from menthol e-cigarettes. According to a recent study published in Respiratory Research, menthol vapes have been found to be ‘more toxic’ than other vaping flavours. This could be particularly harmful to those who already have weakened lungs due to smoking cigarettes regularly.
Minty Flavours Generate More Toxic Microparticles
The study, conducted by American researchers, found that the minty flavour generates more toxic microparticles compared to non-menthol vapes. The microparticles could cause significant harm to individuals with weakened lungs, regardless of age and how long they have been smoking. Researchers also discovered that menthol vapers took shallower breaths and had poorer lung function compared to non-menthol smokers.
Misconceptions About Vaping Safety
“Many people, especially youth, erroneously assume that vaping is safe, but even nicotine-free vaping mixtures contain many compounds that can potentially damage the lungs,” warns senior author Kambez H. Benam, associate professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. He also added, “Just because something is safe to consume as food does not mean that it’s safe to inhale.”
Testing Methodology
Scientists used a specially designed robotic system that mimics the mechanics of human breathing and vaping behaviour, as they deemed animal testing too much of a limitation. They cross-analysed the machine’s findings with a cohort of around 25 menthol vapers and 69 users of other vaping products who had also smoked cigarettes.
Urging for Further Large-Scale Clinical Studies
The researchers hope for future large-scale clinical studies to provide a more in-depth analysis of the potential harm caused by menthol e-cigarettes. In the meantime, they are urging people who don’t yet smoke to keep away from the ‘toxic’ vapes.
“The main message that we want to put out there is for people, especially young adults, who haven’t smoked before,” said Benam. “Switching to e-cigarettes may be a better, safer alternative for someone who is trying to quit smoking regular tobacco products. But it’s important to have full knowledge of e-cigarettes’ risks and benefits before trying them.”
Conclusion
The latest study published in Respiratory Research has found that menthol e-cigarettes generate more toxic microparticles than other vaping flavours. This warning is particularly important for individuals who already have weakened lungs due to smoking cigarettes regularly. Despite the potential benefits of using e-cigarettes to quit smoking, it’s important to understand the risks and benefits fully before trying them.
FAQs
Are menthol e-cigarettes safe to use?
According to the latest study published in Respiratory Research, menthol e-cigarettes are ‘more toxic’ than other vaping flavours. They generate more toxic microparticles, which could be harmful to individuals with weakened lungs.Why are menthol e-cigarettes more toxic?
Minty flavours generate more toxic microparticles compared to non-menthol vapes. The microparticles could cause significant harm to individuals with weakened lungs, regardless of age and how long they have been smoking.Can e-cigarettes help quit smoking?
According to senior author Kambez H. Benam, associate professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, switching to e-cigarettes may be a better, safer alternative for someone who is trying to quit smoking regular tobacco products. However, it’s important to understand the risks and benefits fully before trying them.What should people do if they want to quit smoking?
Individuals who want to quit smoking should consult with their healthcare provider for advice on the best way to quit. This could include nicotine replacement therapy, counselling, or medication. It’s important to have a plan and support system in place to increase the chances of successfully quitting.Are non-menthol e-cigarettes safe to use?
The latest study published in Respiratory Research did not compare all types of e-cigarettes, but rather focused on the potential harm caused by menthol e-cigarettes. It’s important to be aware of the risks and benefits of all types of e-cigarettes before using them.