E-cigs may deliver more toxins than smoke, researchers say

By Andy Soltis
Don’t make that nicotine switch just yet.
E-cigarette users may be getting higher concentrations of toxins than regular smokers because they inhale deeper and more frequently when they puff, NYU researchers say.
Although they are often touted as a safer alternative, e-cigs, introduced in the States in 2007, haven’t been in use long enough to determine their health effects, said Dr. Deepak Saxena, of NYU’s College of Dentistry.
“We have no scientific data to show that nicotine at this concentration is safe,” said Saxena, an associate professor of basic science and craniofacial biology.
Each e-cig nicotine cartridge provides 200 to 400 puffs, equal to two to three packs of regular cigarettes.
Saxena says e-cigs, which deliver nicotine in a vapor form, must be studied as their popularity grows.
“They are designed for new smokers, to bring up a new generation,” he said.
The City Council is now weighing a proposal to place e-cigs under the same restrictions as regular cigs. Former tobacco smokers oppose it, saying e-cigs helped them kick regular puffing.
“People are saying, ‘Now I am smoking and happy with my addiction,’ ” Saxena said.
“But the problem is that if you want to get out of the addiction, you may become more addicted.”
http://nypost.com/2013/12/14/e-cigs-may-deliver-more-toxins-than-smoke-researchers-say/