Cigarette smoke and oxidative stress

More about the book

From a public health perspective, tobacco smoking is one of the most significant preventable causes of disease globally. Tobacco smoke contains numerous chemicals that have crucial biological effects on disease processes. The gas phase of tobacco smoke is oxidizing, the tar phase is reducing, and whole smoke is approximately neutral, leading to an “antioxidant paradox” regarding its effects on oxidative stress. This comprehensive overview aims to consolidate current knowledge about oxidative stress and tobacco smoke, as smoking is the most recognized condition linked to oxidative stress and may serve as a model for other conditions. Distinguished researchers from both public and private sectors have been invited to evaluate the scientific status in their areas of expertise, selected solely for their scientific merits. While we do not assert that all health hazards associated with cigarette smoking arise from oxidative stress, we aim to explore this connection. For some health hazards, we already have insights. This work is intended to encourage further research to address remaining questions. Barry Halliwell and Henrik E. Poulsen highlight the significance of understanding oxidative stress and tobacco smoke constituents in their contributions.