Over the past decade, electronic cigarettes (also known as e-cigarettes or vape pens) have exploded in popularity. One of the primary reasons the use of these devices has increased is because they have been marketed as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes. However, new research has called the safety of e-cigarettes into question, and in recent months, a large number of people have experienced lung injuries and diseases after using vaping devices.
Study Links E-Cigarettes to Lung Cancer
While nicotine is the chemical in cigarettes that leads to addiction, it is generally not considered to be a carcinogen, and other substances in tobacco are believed to cause lung cancer for smokers. Because of this, e-cigarettes which are used to deliver nicotine were thought to be safer to use. However, a new study has found that inhaling e-cigarette vapor may also lead to lung cancer.
In the study, mice were exposed to e-cigarette vapor that contained nicotine for 20 hours per week over the course of 54 weeks. 22.5% of the mice developed lung cancer, and 57.5% of the mice experienced abnormal cell growth in the bladder, which is a condition that often leads to cancer. Another group of mice was exposed to e-cigarette vapor that did not contain nicotine, and none of these mice developed cancer. According to the researchers, a human who regularly used e-cigarettes for three to six years would experience a similar level of exposure to what was experienced by the mice.
E-Cigarettes Continue to Cause Lung Disease
In recent months, vaping devices have been under a great deal of scrutiny due to the outbreak of lung illness that has been reported across the United States. As of October 29, 2019, there have been more than 1,800 cases of e-cigarette or vaping product use associated lung injury (EVALI), and 37 people have died. While the majority of these cases have involved products that contain THC derived from marijuana, a large number of people have experienced lung injuries after using products containing nicotine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stated that the only way to avoid the risk of this type of lung illness is to refrain from using any type of e-cigarette.
Contact Our Chicago E-Cigarette Injury Attorneys
As more and more people experience harm after using e-cigarettes, it is clear that these devices are not as safe as manufacturers have stated. If you have experienced lung disease, cancer, or any other negative effects after using vaping products, you should be sure to understand your legal options for pursuing compensation from a negligent product manufacturer. At Pullano & Siporin, our Cook County personal injury lawyers have extensive experience in cases involving e-cigarette injuries. We are prepared to provide you with dedicated legal representation, and we will work with you to hold a manufacturer responsible for your damages. Contact our office today at 312-551-1100 to schedule a free consultation.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/severe-lung-disease.html
