Cigarette Chemicals

This information has been reviewed and approved by Maggie Britton, PhD (May 2024).

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Summary: Chemicals in Cigarettes and Tobacco: What's Burning?

Over 4,000 chemical compounds are created when you light up.  Learn about the dangers of smoking:

Facts

• 443,000 people die from smoking or secondhand smoke each year
• Over 539 additives are used in the manufacturing of cigarettes

Additives in Cigarettes

• Carbon Monoxide- released in car exhaust fumes
• Lead- in batteries
• Acetone- in nail polish remover
• Arsenic- in rat poison
• Acetic Acid- ingredient in hair dye
• Ammonia- common household cleaner
• Formaldehyde- also known as embalming fluid
• Cadmium- in battery acid
• Butane- in lighter fluid
• Tar- material for paving roads

We Can Help You Quit Smoking

Call 1.800.QUIT NOW or read about the QuitLogix® program.

More Information on Quitting Cigarette Smoking

• Tips to Quit Smoking
• More About Quitting Tobacco
• QuitLogix^® Program
• Find a Doctor

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