Recent Studies Reveal Alarming Levels of Heavy Metals in Popular Vaping Devices, Raising Concerns Among Experts and Youth
Recent research conducted by scientists in the United States has uncovered a disturbing increase in harmful heavy metals present in widely used e-cigarettes, commonly known as vapes. Notably, some brands exhibit metal concentrations in their vapor that surpass those found in traditional cigarettes. This finding has sparked serious concern within the scientific community and raises questions about the safety of these alternatives to tobacco, especially among young users who are highly engaged with vaping products. Toxicologists selected three of the most popular brands in the U.S. market—ELF Bar, Esco Bar, and Flum Pebble—for their experiments. The first is also the most favored brand among Ukrainian youth and the local market. During laboratory tests, researchers activated the devices and simulated between 500 and 1500 inhalations per brand, analyzing the composition of the resulting vapor. After completing the tests, scientists disassembled the devices to identify sources of toxic substances. The most alarming was the elevated lead levels detected in Esco Bar vapors: in 200 puffs, the lead concentration exceeded what is typically contained in twenty packs of cigarettes. Lead, a heavy metal that accumulates in bone tissue and is slowly eliminated, poses long-term health risks. Poisoning with lead can cause neurological damage, kidney failure, hypertension, weakened immune function, and more. In children, lead exposure is associated with developmental delays both physically and cognitively. Mark Salazar, a toxicologist at the University of California, Davis, shared: “When I first saw the lead levels, they were so high I thought our equipment malfunctioned.” In addition to lead, significant amounts of nickel, chromium, and stibium were found across all brands. Nickel and chromium are known carcinogens, while stibium can lead to heart and lung issues, and even cause swallowing difficulties or vomiting in overdose cases. The analysis revealed that the formation of toxic mixtures occurs during vaping due to interaction between the device components and nicotine fluid, with heavy metals easily transferring into the vapor. The appeal of e-cigarettes lies in their flavor and aroma, but growing scientific evidence indicates their potential harm. In Ukraine, a complete ban on the sale of cigarettes and flavored electronic devices came into effect in 2024, as part of efforts to protect public health.