Tobacco leaves traces in the bones of smokers that last not only throughout their lives, but even centuries after their death, research by archaeologists has revealed.
Smoking leaves traces in the bones, researchers say PHOTO: Archives
Researchers from the University of Leicester studied human remains buried in Britain between the 12th and 19th centuries, revealing the profound impact of tobacco on bones and its link to bone conditions such as an increased risk of fractures.
The study highlights how the introduction of tobacco into Western Europe around 500 years ago led to significant changes in the structure of the human skeleton, writes independent.co.uk.
Traditionally, archaeologists relied on dental evidence to determine whether a skeleton belonged to a smoker, looking for stains or wear caused by pipe use. But this method often proved ineffective when teeth were missing or did not survive.
The University of Leicester team examined 323 cortical bones, the dense outer layer that gives bones their strength, from known smokers and smokers with an unknown history.
Using mass spectroscopy, the researchers analyzed the molecular composition of the bones, identifying 45 distinct molecular features that differentiated the bones of smokers from those of nonsmokers.
The study, published in the journal Science Advances, says the following: “Tobacco use leaves a metabolic record in human bone distinctive enough to identify its use in individuals with unknown tobacco use. Archaeological human skeletal remains have the potential to provide direct evidence that can be used to study past health and pathological conditions, including diseases associated with tobacco use.”
Dr Sarah Inskip, a co-author of the study, said: “Our research shows significant differences in the molecular characteristics of bones from ex-tobacco users and non-smokers. This finding indicates that tobacco consumption has an impact on the structure of our skeletons. Our ongoing research aims to understand how these differences occur, which may have implications for understanding why tobacco use is a risk factor for certain musculoskeletal and dental disorders.”
While the harmful effects of smoking on soft tissues and organs – such as increased risks of lung, bladder and throat cancer, as well as stroke and coronary heart disease – are well documented, the impact on bones has been less studied.
Smoking has been associated with bone conditions, including low bone density, an increased risk of fractures and periodontitis.
This research not only sheds light on the historical prevalence of smoking, but also highlights the extensive and lasting impact of tobacco on human health, providing valuable insights into the skeletal consequences of this widespread habit.
