Introduction

Chemistry of Tobacco

Chemistry of Tobacco In tobacco smoke, around 4,000 different chemicals are present, depending from brand to brand. Many of these compounds are toxic, pharmacologically active, and carcinogenic (identified to cause cancer). The following is a number of major carcinogens and carcinogen forming compounds found in tobacco smoke.

Tar
The majority of the particulate matter that is inhaled by a smoker is composed of tar. Within a particle of tar, there are many different hazardous organic chemicals identified as carcinogens and tumor initiators. Tar in its solid form is the component that stains the teeth and fingers of smokers. This substance also can stain and damage the lung tissue.

Nicotine
One of the most dangerous chemicals in tobacco smoke is nicotine, the pharmacological agent identified to cause addiction among smokers. Nicotine has many harmful effects such as increased heart rate and blood pressure, constriction of blood vessels, and damage to the muscles, hormonal systems, and metabolism. Nicotine is also linked to many coronary diseases because of its effect to increase platelet stickiness in the blood. A lethal dose of nicotine is around 30 to 60 milligrams. An average cigarette contains 1 milligram of nicotine. The human body breaks down nicotine to help prevent fatal accumulations, however it is not comprehensive protection from the effects of nicotine.

Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide is formed when a cigarette is lit. It is odorless and tasteless and in large doses, it is fatal. Carbon monoxide is linked with coronary heart disease and affecting vision. Although carbon monoxide is not a carcinogen, it is thought to contribute to certain cancers, including lung cancer. Carbon monoxide inhibits the respiratory systems ability to clean out the airways with mucus. When carbon monoxide enters the airways, it stays along with other toxic chemicals contained in cigarette smoke. These toxins cause inflammation, impair lung functions, and increase the risk of lung disease.

Nitrogen Oxides
Nitrogen oxides are found in high doses in cigarette smoke. In lab animals, it has caused lung damage. It may be responsible for causing lung damage leading to emphysema.

Hydrogen Cyanide
Hydrogen cyanide is proven to have a detrimental effect on the cilia. The cilia are a part of the lung clearance system in humans. When the lung clearance system is impaired and toxic agents build up, the likelihood of developing a disease increases.

Metals
Thirty metals have been found in cigarette smoke, many of which have been linked to cancer. A few of the metals found are arsenic, nickel, cadmium, chromium, and lead. Along with metals, radioactive compounds have been found in cigarettes, all of them being carcinogens.