cigaretrøg

cigaretrøg refers to the smoke produced by the combustion of tobacco in cigarettes. It is a complex aerosol that contains thousands of chemical compounds. Main components include nicotine, tar, carbon monoxide, and various volatile organic compounds. The smoke is produced during combustion and is released as both mainstream smoke (inhaled through the mouth) and sidestream smoke (emitted from the burning end) into the surrounding air. The composition and concentration vary with cigarette type, smoking behavior, and ventilation.

Exposure to cigaretrøg is associated with adverse health effects. Nicotine is addictive; tar contains carcinogens; carbon monoxide reduces blood's oxygen-carrying capacity. Long-term smoking increases risk of lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Secondhand smoke exposes bystanders to many of the same toxicants, while thirdhand smoke refers to residues on surfaces that passive exposure can occur later. Children are particularly at risk from secondhand exposure.

Many countries regulate cigaretrøg through smoke-free laws, warning labels, and age restrictions; tobacco taxation; public health campaigns. Some jurisdictions regulate cigarette design and emissions; there is ongoing debate about e-cigarettes and nicotine delivery devices as alternatives or cessation aids.

Cigarette smoking became widespread in the 20th century; advertising, social norms, and production scale aided its growth. Public health research in the mid-20th century established links to cancer and cardiovascular disease, leading to policy changes in many parts of the world.