Radiological study on smoke and smokeless tobacco: a concise review on health impacts assessment

Abstract

Background: Radioactive isotopes from uranium and thorium decay chains in tobacco products, whether smoked or smokeless, have high carcinogenic and biological risks. Although the use of smokeless tobacco has increased, there are under-characterised health effects for both radiological and reproductive health, and it is perceived as a safer alternative to smoking.

Objective: To assess, in detail, the radiological consequences of smoke and smokeless tobacco, and their impact on male and female reproductive health and fetal outcomes.

Methods: Systematic literature review was carried out for articles published up to 2022 in various databases such as PubMed, ResearchGate, and Google Scholar. Studies that investigated the radioactivity content of tobacco products and the health effects were considered. Results: In both smoke and smokeless tobacco products, an increase in radioactivity was found. Chronic tobacco exposure has been shown to be associated with ovarian dysfunction, impaired oocyte quality, hormonal disruption, insulin resistance, hypertension, acute respiratory illness, and osteoporosis. Preliminary findings suggest negative impacts on female fertility, foetal growth and long-term neonatal health.

Conclusions: Smoking (all types) is a major risk factor for both radiological and reproductive health. Tobacco use is estimated to claim more than 8 million lives each year, and is projected to kill more than 1 billion people in the 21st century. Public health policy needs to be informed by an increased awareness of these radiological risks and dispel the myth of the complete safety of smokeless tobacco.