Have you ever heard of tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs)? Unless you know someone who works in the tobacco industry, the chances are slim that you know about these chemicals, even if you were once an avid smoker. Simply put, TSNAs are some of the most dangerous and toxic carcinogens in tobacco products and, to make matters worse, these are 100% exclusive to tobacco. From cigarettes and chewing tobacco to snuff and electronic cigarettes, you can guarantee that people waiting to get a kick of nicotine will be ingesting TSNAs. Let’s take a closer look and find out some more information.
The Origins of TSNAs
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has recognized and tagged eight TSNAs in tobacco and byproducts (specifically smoke). In part, two of these dangerous chemicals have been identified as Group One carcinogens, indicating that people who ingest these have a higher risk of developing cancer. These two toxins are:
- N-nitrosonornicotine (NNN)
- 4-methyl-N-nitrosamino-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK)
Significant Threat to Smokers
Being carcinogenic, TSNAs can potentially trigger some debilitating and life-threatening forms of cancer that include, but might not be limited to:
- Oral
- Esophageal
- Liver
- Pancreatic
- Cervical (possibly)
Medical professionals have agreed that TSNAs vary greatly depending on the source of production around the world, and these reasons may chiefly rely on environmental issues. A variety of circumstances surrounding the growth, farming, production, and distribution of tobacco can result in different TSNA mixtures. In essence, each of these toxic formulas can trigger different forms of cancer. For example, burley tobacco and flue-curing tend to produce products that contain notoriously high levels of TSNAs.
Seeking Treatment for Cigarette Use
Remember that addiction can be triggered by one shot of alcohol or a single puff of a cigarette, but the true danger of this sickness is that you cannot fully determine how much you have to consume before your mind forms an attachment. Social smoking is just as dangerous as chronic smoking, on many levels, but you do not have to smoke to have a good time. Remember, drugs cannot determine if you have fun and do not have control over your life.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug abuse or addiction, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of alcohol withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
