E-Cigarette Toxicology and Public Health — Exploring the Safety of E-Cigarette Compared to Traditional Cigarette

Abstract

With the popularity of e-cigarettes, there are concerns about the potential health risks associated with inhaling e-cigarette aerosols, which contain a complex mixture of chemicals including nicotine, flavourings and poisons. This paper presents a systematic toxicological analysis of several chemicals commonly found in e-cigarettes. The chemical properties and toxicity of nicotine, propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, benzaldehyde and cinnamaldehyde are discussed in relation to their use in e-cigarettes, with an emphasis on the hidden health risks involved. Nicotine is a highly addictive alkaloid that causes oxidative stress, neuronal apoptosis, DNA damage, and is highly toxic. E-cigarette solvents, such as vegetable glycerine and propylene glycol, can activate melanin production in the skin and raise the likelihood respiratory infections. Flavouring agents like benzaldehyde and cinnamaldehyde can induce cellular damage and heighten the susceptibility to disease like cancer and cardiovascular disease, particularly in individuals with specific genetic variants of the ALDH2 enzyme. The discussion revealed a lack of research to fully understand and assess prolonged health effects of e-cigarette use. However, both clinical and marketing should highlight the known possible risks. Clinicians should advise patients accordingly, and regulators must closely monitor the sale and promotion of e-cigarettes and be transparent about any potential harms to safeguard the welfare of consumers.