Smoking e-cigarettes causes constricted airways and lung inflammation in healthy smokers, according to a research study
Michelle Rivera
LOS ANGELES
,
January 9, 2012
(Industry Intelligence)
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Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), which have been touted as a safer alternative to cigarettes, may lead to compromised lung function, according to a research study, Reuters reported on Jan. 5.
The Center for Global Tobacco Control at Harvard’s School of Public Health conducted a research study in Greece, where 30 healthy smokers puffed on an e-cigarette. Breathing tests revealed that the smokers’ airways were constricted and their lungs were inflamed after a mere five minutes of smoking e-cigarettes.
Researchers did not find compromised lung function when 10 of the study participants smoked placebo devices -- e-cigarettes without cartridges.
Lead researcher Constantine I. Vardavas said that more studies are needed to determine the long-term effects of e-cigarettes.
Ray Story, the CEO of the Tobacco Vapor Electronic Cigarette Association, staunchly defended e-cigarettes.
The primary source of this article is Reuters, New York, New York, on Jan. 5, 2012.
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