Environmental Health Investigations Branch

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are combustion-less battery-powered devices that are able to aerosolize a liquid solution often containing nicotine, marijuana (THC), cannabidiol (CBD) or other substances.

For information on e-cigarette, or vaping, assocated lung injury (EVALI), visit:

Updates on California Vaping Related Lung Illness (CDPH link)
Information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Outbreak of Lung Injury Associated with the Use of E-Cigarette, or Vaping, Products (external link)

The Environmental Health Investigations Branch is working with staff from across CDPH to address EVALI in our state.

The Branch has also contributed to several research projects related to e-cigarettes. Studies have found that e-cigarettes can generate hazardous compounds such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde and acrolein during use. Recent projects include:

Work practices and worker exposures in e-cigarette vape shops.

As a relatively new industry, little is known about levels of chemicals in the air from vaping in occupational settings. EAS is working with the Occupational Health Branch and Bay Area vape shops to learn about common work practices and whether chemicals are at levels of health concern (for example, formaldehyde, nicotine, and diacetyl, a flavoring chemical).

Toxicity and biological effects of e-liquid flavorings.

EHIB has partnered with local and international researchers to learn more about the effects of these chemicals on the lungs and enzymes that may have implications for addiction.