Scientists are reporting new concerns about e-cigarettes that are dashing the hopes they might offer a healthy alternative to traditional tobacco products. A new study, reported by Yahoo news, contends popular electronic cigarettes contain a comparable level of carcinogens as regular smokes.
E-cigarettes, which vaporize nicotine but don't contain tobacco, have become popular alternatives for smokers and those trying to quit. But a report released in France’s National Consumer Institute magazine this week says that many e-cigarettes contain "a significant quantity of carcinogenic molecules" than has been reported in past studies.
Researchers found that three in 10 e-cigaretts contain levels of formaldehyde and acrolein that are roughly equal to those found in standard cigarettes.
U.S. officials are considering new regulations on e-cigarettes, including a ban on online sales. But because the products don't emit tobacco smoke, users and makers have largely been able to avoid restrictions.