At this point, science regularly confirms that e-cigarettes are not such a harmless substitute for normal cigarettes. It is indicated that various elements that give flavor to the inserts are particularly dangerous. They can reduce the resistance of our lungs. In this way, they expose themselves to dangerous germs.
Scientists and medical experts point out that greater legal regulations on the consumption of e-cigarettes are needed. Especially since many of them seem to be specifically advertised to reach people under 18. And w Poland despite the official ban on selling them to minors, they have no problems obtaining them.
Until now, it was suspected that every flavored e-cigarette cartridge could be dangerous to our body. However, it turns out that some may be more harmful than others. One flavor in particular stands out.
Scientists from McGill University’s Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics conducted a study on mice in which they exposed them to the vapor of flavored and unflavored e-cigarette cartridges. They used a live imaging technique to examine changes in immune cells, specifically alveolar macrophages, which are found in the lungs.
These cells remove harmful particles from the lower respiratory tract. While observing the mice, the researchers noticed that the berry-flavored vapors contained additional chemicals that stopped the cellular pathways that macrophages move in the lungs. As a result, reduced immune protection allowed bacteria to spread faster, increasing the chance of developing lung diseases.
Scientists want to identify specific chemical compounds that may be unique to blueberry inserts. The study leads to specific conclusions, but it also requires repetition on the human body.
The research was published in the journal PNAS.
Source: geekweek.interia.pl