Scientists have identified the taste of e-cigarettes that can harm your lungs’ immune cells and make it more difficult for them to fight infections.
New research highlights that certain vape flavours, especially berry, could be worse for lung health than others.
Introduction
E-cigarettes are known to pose long-term health risks, but recent research has uncovered something alarming: some flavours may be far worse for your lungs than others. A study from McGill University in Canada reveals that berry-flavoured vapes could cause significant damage to lung immune cells, leading to respiratory issues.
The Impact of Flavoured E-Cigarettes
Researchers found that berry-flavoured vapes interfere with alveolar macrophages (AMs), the immune cells in the lungs responsible for clearing bacteria. These cells are crucial for protecting the body from infections and pollutants. When exposed to berry-flavoured vape vapour, AMs become less mobile, reducing their ability to fight off harmful pathogens.
Why Berry Flavours Are Particularly Harmful
The research team focused on berry-flavoured e-cigarettes because they are popular among young people. Their findings showed that complex flavours like berry contain a mixture of chemicals, which are more harmful to immune cells than simpler flavours like menthol or flavourless vapes. This suggests that the combination of chemicals in berry flavours might be contributing to more severe health risks.
What Happens When Immune Cells Are Affected?
When AMs are compromised, they can’t clear out infections effectively. In the study, mice exposed to berry-flavoured vapes showed significantly higher bacterial counts after infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common pathogen in smokers. This reduced immune function could result in longer recovery times and more dependence on antibiotics.
The Danger to Young Vapers
As vaping rates increase among teens, flavoured e-cigarettes are becoming more popular, often marketed in colourful, eye-catching packaging. Dr. Ajitha Thanabalasuriar, the study’s co-author, warns that these flavours could have detrimental effects on young people’s health. The marketing strategies targeting kids, combined with the dangers of flavoured vapes, create serious risks for the future.
Caution is Key: What Can Be Done?
The study suggests that greater caution should be exercised when creating and marketing flavoured e-cigarettes. While further research is needed, regulations on flavoured vapes could help reduce exposure to harmful chemicals. The growing body of evidence shows that e-cigarettes aren’t as harmless as they may seem, and flavoured options may pose an even greater threat to lung health.
Conclusion
Flavoured e-cigarettes, especially berry-flavoured ones, could be far more harmful than previously thought. With young people being the primary target of these products, it’s essential to stay informed and cautious. As research into vaping continues, understanding the risks of flavours could play a crucial role in reducing health issues linked to e-cigarette use.
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