Polycyclic hydrocarbons are well known as being carcinogenic. They carry formidable cancerization factors right along the route that the tobacco smoke follows, including the lips, tongue, pharynx, larynx and bronchial tubes. But a new study has suggested that smoking presents a danger from the very first inhalation!
Although the carcinogenic characteristics of cigarettes are widely known, a new study carried out in the United States has thrown an even better light on the time needed for a cigarette to cause damage.
It takes only one cigarette to open ourselves to the risk of developing lung cancer! Polycyclic hydrocarbons contained in tobacco go to work and attack cells’ DNA less than 30 minutes after a first cigarette puff, suggests a study carried out at the University of Minnesota, in the United States.
Research Professor, Stephen Hecht of the University of Minnesota was extremely surprised to discover the speed of the damage caused by these hydrocarbons in 12 volunteer smokers.
According to the research, the effect of cigarette smoke is so rapid that it can only be compared with that of an intravenous injection.
This study is the first to reveal the direct effects of polycyclic hydrocarbons, without other sources of exposure such as atmospheric pollution or diet.
These results present a serious warning to to cigarette smokers, especially those who are planning to start or just starting to smoke.
As the WHO points out, there is no such thing as a good cigarette. The risks are there from the very first puff.
