Proven risks

People smoking tobacco

Persons exposed    Active smokers
Carcinogen Tobacco smoke, being a mixture containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and the nitrosated derivatives of nicotine and nor-nicotine.
Principal route of    exposure Inhalation
Target organ (or  tumour type) lung, oral cavity, naso-, oro- & hypopharynx, nasal cavity & paranasal sinuses,   larynx, stomach, esophagus, pancreas, liver, kidney, ureter, urinary bladder, uterine cervix & bone marrow 
Comment         Major preventable cause of maligant disease

People who previously smoked tobacco

Persons exposed    Ex smokers
Carcinogen Tobacco smoke, being a mixture containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and the nitrosated derivatives of nicotine and nor-nicotine.
Principal route of    exposure Previous inhalation
Target organ (or  tumour type) lung, oral cavity, naso-, oro- & hypopharynx, nasal cavity & paranasal sinuses,   larynx, stomach, esophagus, pancreas, liver, kidney, ureter, urinary bladder, uterine cervix & bone marrow 
Comment         Risk is reduced by comparison with continued smoking

This page was last updated on : Monday, 31 August 2009

The Cancer Council Helpline

Confidential telephone information and support for the cost of a local call.

Visit your state or territory Cancer Council

Donate Online

Support vital Cancer Council
research, education programs
and support services for patients
and their families.

Shop

Clothing, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, cosmetics and other sun protective products.
created by juicemedia