Tupakansavun

Tupakansavun is the smoke produced when tobacco is burned. It is a complex aerosol containing gases and fine particles released during tobacco combustion, emitted both from the burning end of a cigarette or other tobacco product and from the smoker’s exhalation. In Finnish, tupakansavu means tobacco smoke, and tupakansavun is the genitive form used when referring to “the tobacco smoke of.”

The major active component in tupakansavun is nicotine, which contributes to addiction. The smoke also contains tar, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, benzene and numerous polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, among thousands of other chemicals. The mixture varies with the product, the burning temperature, and duration of exposure.

Exposure occurs through inhalation by smokers and bystanders (secondhand smoke), as well as through residues on surfaces (thirdhand smoke). Secondhand exposure can occur in homes, workplaces and public spaces, and children are particularly vulnerable to the indirect effects.

Health effects linked to tupakansavun include higher risks of lung cancer, cardiovascular disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for regular inhalers. Non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke face elevated risk of heart disease and lung cancer, while children exposed at home may experience worsened asthma, respiratory infections and ear problems.

Regulatory and public health responses aim to reduce exposure through smoke-free indoor policies, public warning campaigns and product labeling. Air quality guidelines and monitoring for related pollutants, such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5), help assess tupakansavun-related risk in environments. Ongoing research supports prevention, cessation efforts and policy development to minimize health harms from tobacco smoke.