A new study from the University of California, Davis suggests that some disposable e-cigarettes may be more harmful than even traditional tobacco products. Researchers found that certain devices emitted significantly higher levels of toxic metals — including lead, nickel, and antimony — than both older e-cigarette models and combustible tobacco products.
In fact, “one of the disposable e-cigarettes studied released more lead during a day’s use than nearly 20 packs of traditional cigarettes,” the report said. The findings, published in ACS Central Science, have sparked urgent calls for tighter regulation of the booming disposable vape market, which is especially popular with adolescents and young adults.
“Our study highlights the hidden risk of these new and popular disposable electronic cigarettes — with hazardous levels of neurotoxic lead and carcinogenic nickel and antimony — which stresses the need for urgency in enforcement,” said Brett Poulin, senior author and assistant professor in the UC Davis Department of Environmental Toxicology. He added, “These risks are not just worse than other e-cigarettes but worse in some cases than traditional cigarettes.”
First author Mark Salazar said, “When I first saw the lead concentrations, they were so high I thought our instrument was broken.” The team found that these metals either already exist in the e-liquids or leach from the internal components of the devices into the vapour that users inhale.
Are disposable vapes worse than traditional cigarettes?
Speaking to indianexpress.com, Dr Shivakumar K, MD respiratory medicine and chief consultant pulmonologist at Kauvery Hospital, Marathahalli, Bengaluru, said, “While traditional cigarettes have long been linked to cancer, heart disease, and other chronic conditions, newer studies are beginning to show that disposable e-cigarettes may pose an entirely different set of risks, some of which are still emerging. These devices deliver high concentrations of nicotine and other chemicals in aerosol form, which can lead to lung damage, systemic inflammation, and, in some cases, greater toxic metal exposure than combustible cigarettes.”
He also said that since disposable vapes are used more frequently and contain flavoured products that appeal to younger users, their long-term health impact may indeed surpass that of cigarettes in certain contexts, particularly with sustained and heavy use.
Risks of inhaling heavy metals, particularly in adolescents and young adults
Dr Shivakumar warned that exposure to metals such as lead, nickel, and antimony can have serious effects, especially for adolescents and young adults whose bodies and brains are still developing. “Lead exposure is known to impair cognitive development, reduce IQ, and contribute to behavioural issues. Nickel can cause respiratory problems and may increase the risk of certain cancers. Antimony can irritate the lungs and skin and negatively affect cardiovascular health,” he said.
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“Over time, chronic inhalation of these metals through vaping may lead to cumulative toxicity, organ damage, hormonal disruption, and a stressed immune system.”
How does this exposure compare to the known risks of tobacco combustion?
While both are dangerous, the mechanism of harm differs. Traditional cigarette smoke releases thousands of toxic compounds like tar and carbon monoxide, which are directly linked to lung cancer and cardiovascular disease.
“E-cigarette aerosol may contain fewer combustion-related toxins but introduces users to other harmful substances, including heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, and fine particulate matter,” said Dr Shivakumar, adding, “While the long-term epidemiological data on vaping is still being mapped, early research clearly shows cause for concern.”
Immediate public health steps recommended
Dr Shivakumar recommended the following to address the growing health threat:
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– Stronger regulations to limit advertising and flavouring that target younger demographics.
– Public education campaigns to raise awareness about the risks of vaping, including heavy metal exposure.
– Greater accountability for manufacturers, including mandatory labelling of all ingredients and components, ensuring transparency.
– Collaborative efforts from parents, schools, and healthcare providers to facilitate open conversations, and help those trying to quit.
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DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
