cigarette smoke

Cigarette smoke is a complex mixture of chemicals produced when tobacco is burned. It contains over 7,000 substances, including nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide. Nicotine is the addictive component, while tar can lead to lung damage and various respiratory issues. Carbon monoxide reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen. Smoking can cause serious health issues such as heart disease, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Additionally, secondhand smoke poses risks to non-smokers, especially children and pregnant women. Efforts to reduce smoking rates focus on education, support for quitting, and public health initiatives.