How does smoking affect exposure to chemicals?

Smoking significantly increases the harmful effects of exposure to chemicals due to the inhalation of toxic substances found in cigarette smoke. When a person smokes, they not only introduce harmful chemicals into their own body but also impair the lung's ability to filter out additional pollutants and toxins from other sources. This compromised respiratory function can lead to increased absorption of harmful chemicals present in the environment, as the body’s defenses are weakened.

Moreover, smoking can alter the metabolism of various chemicals, leading to enhanced toxicity and creating a compounded effect with existing exposures. The combination of the chemicals from smoking and those encountered in other environments exacerbates health risks, such as respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and even certain types of cancer. This interconnectedness highlights how smoking, rather than being a neutral factor, amplifies the adverse effects of chemical exposure in people’s lifestyles.