Several health risks of cartridge vapes

Using cartridge vapes comes with several health risks, as outlined by various studies and health organizations:

1. Lung Damage and Respiratory Issues: One of the most concerning risks is the potential for severe lung damage. The CDC identified an outbreak of e-cigarette, or vaping, product use-associated lung injury (EVALI), with many cases linked to THC-containing products, especially those from suspicious sources. Symptoms include coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, and respiratory failure in severe cases .

2. Presence of Harmful Additives: Many THC vape carts contain additives such as vitamin E acetate, used as a thickening agent. While safe for topical and oral use, inhaling vitamin E acetate can cause significant harm to the lungs and was strongly linked to the EVALI outbreak .

3. Chemical Exposure: When THC oil is vaporized, it can produce toxic byproducts like formaldehyde and acrolein, which are known to irritate the respiratory system and have carcinogenic properties. Additionally, the heating elements in vape devices can release heavy metals such as lead and nickel into the vapor, increasing the risk of lung damage and other health issues .

4. Lack of Regulation: The cannabis industry often modifies products to circumvent FDA regulations, leading to a lack of oversight. This can result in cartridges containing harmful contaminants and inaccurate levels of THC, leading to excessive and dangerous inhalation .

5. Psychological and Addiction Concerns: Cartridge vapes often contain high levels of nicotine, which is highly addictive and poses unique dangers to youth due to their developing brains. Nicotine exposure can harm brain development, leading to long-term consequences, including learning and attention disorders .

6. Other Potential Harms: E-cigarette aerosol can contain substances that can be harmful or potentially harmful to the body, including cancer-causing chemicals, heavy metals, tiny particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs, volatile organic compounds, and flavorings such as diacetyl, a chemical linked to a serious lung disease .

7. Dual Use: Using both cartridge vapes and regular cigarettes is not an effective way to safeguard health and may result in greater exposure to toxins and worse respiratory health outcomes than using either product alone .

8. Explosions and Injuries: There have been reports of e-cigarette devices exploding, causing severe injuries such as burns and lacerations .

9. Nicotine Poisoning: Accidental ingestion of e-liquids containing nicotine can lead to nicotine poisoning, cardiac arrhythmias, and other life-threatening conditions .

It's important to note that while cartridge vapes are often perceived as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, they are not without risks, and scientists are still researching the short- and long-term health effects of using cartridge vapes .