Reactions of cigarette smoking

Reactions of cigarette smoking

Deana BitikoferCHM 122

There are approximately 4000 chemicals in cigarettes, hundreds of them are toxic. The ingredients in cigarettes affect nearly all of the bodies functions. They are addictive and deadly!

2Benzene is classified as a Group A carcinogen, by the Environmental Protection Agency.

3Benzene can be found in pesticides and gasoline. It has high levels in cigarette smoke, and is responsible for half of all human exposure.

Benzene found in cigarettes, cause destruction to all parts of the human body.

Benzene is one of the top 20 chemicals produced in the United States.Natural sources of Benzene are in volcano eruptions and forest fires

Benzene irritates the lining of the airway, exposure can severely damage the lungs causing fluid accumulation and bleeding. Which can cause death.

Benzene is stored in fat and bone marrow and converted into metabolites in the liver and bone marrow. Benzene is excreted in urine after 48 hours

Benzene can cause leukemia, cancer of the white blood cells.Benzene can cause pancytopenia, a serious bone marrow disorder. Individuals exposed to benzene have less red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets in their bone marrow. A low platelet count can cause uncontrolled bleeding and possibly death.

Benzene is the simplest aromatic hydrocarbon, some cause pleasant smells, like vanilla. Poison ivy also contains a benzene ring. We need to look at benzene as a poison and try to protect ourselves from them. It is interesting that benzene can be used for fragrances, but also kill you.

Reference Slide:

Martin, Terry; The effects of Smoking on Human Health. 2008, July 20 Martin, Terry; Chemicals in Cigarettes: What they are and how they harm us. 2012, May 09 Bateman, Cynthia; Health Effects of Benzene. 2010, July 01 St. John M.D., Tina; Harmful Effects of Benzene. 2010, April 04Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.2007, August