Quantitative Analysis Of Heavy Metals In Cigarette Tobacco: Health Implications And Risk Assessment

Abstract

This study investigates the concentrations of heavy metals—iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu)—in cigarette tobacco samples and cigarette butts from various brands, using sensitive analytical methods with low Limits of Detection (LOD) and Limits of Quantification (LOQ). The findings reveal significant variability in metal content across different cigarette brands, with certain brands exhibiting elevated levels of toxic metals, particularly cadmium and chromium. Recovery rates and precision measurements indicate the reliability of the analytical methods, with RSD values generally below 5%. A marked increase in metal concentrations was observed in cigarette butts after smoking, highlighting the environmental risks associated with improper disposal. The study's results align with published research, underscoring the health risks of exposure to toxic metals in cigarettes and the environmental impact of cigarette waste. These findings emphasize the need for stricter regulations on cigarette production and disposal to mitigate public health and environmental hazards.,