How tobacco consumption changes bone structure

The harmful effects of smoking extend far beyond the lungs and extend beyond a person’s life.

Recent research from the University of Leicester shows that tobacco use leaves noticeable marks in human bones even centuries after death. This surprising discovery sheds new light on the long-term effects of smoking on the human body.

A study of skeletal remains in Britain, spanning from the 12th to the 19th century, found that tobacco smoke causes permanent changes in bone structure and increases the risk of fractures. This suggests that the damage caused by smoking is not just limited to the organs, but also has a lasting impact on our skeletons.

Centuries of change in bones

Tobacco was introduced to Europe about 500 years ago, and researchers have now found evidence that smoking has caused measurable changes in human bones since then. Before this discovery, scientists could only infer tobacco use from dental damage or pipe-related discoloration on the teeth. Yet these methods were often unreliable, especially if teeth were missing or damaged.

The research team from the University of Leicester analyzed 323 bone samples, including those from confirmed smokers and people with unknown smoking habits. Using mass spectrometry – a technique that identifies the chemical composition of samples – they identified 45 specific marks in the bones of smokers, clearly distinguishing them from non-smokers. This groundbreaking discovery means that scientists can now determine whether someone has smoked based on their bone structure alone.

How does smoking affect the skeleton?

The study’s findings show that bones, which are often used by archaeologists to uncover historical records, also contain important information about diseases and health risks associated with tobacco use. Co-author Dr. Sarah Inskip explained that smoking not only leaves a molecular imprint, but also increases the risk of bone-related diseases. This adds to what we already know about the harmful effects of smoking on other parts of the body.

“Our study shows significant differences in the molecular characteristics of bones from former tobacco users and non-users. This finding indicates that tobacco use affects the structure of our skeletons.” said Dr. Inskip.

Although the harmful effects of smoking on organs such as the lungs, throat and bladder are well known, its impact on bones has received less attention. Smoking is linked to decreased bone density, an increased risk of fractures and dental problems such as gum disease. This study now provides even more evidence that tobacco not only damages soft tissues, but also the bones themselves.