LEICESTER: Archaeologists have uncovered a significant, permanent impact of smoking on human bones that can last for centuries after an individual’s death, according to Independent. This discovery was made by researchers from the University of Leicester, who studied human remains in Britain dating from the 12th to the 19th centuries. The findings reveal the profound influence of tobacco on bone structure and its connection to bone-related conditions, including an increased risk of fractures.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the study highlights how the introduction of tobacco to Western Europe around 500 years ago brought about notable changes in human skeletal frameworks. Traditionally, archaeologists have relied on dental evidence to ascertain whether a skeleton belonged to a smoker, by looking for stains or wear caused by pipe use. However, this method often fell short when teeth were missing or had not survived over time.
The University of Leicester team examined 323 cortical bones, which are
the dense outer layers providing bones their strength, from both known tobacco users and individuals with unknown smoking histories. Through the use of mass spectroscopy, researchers analyzed the molecular composition of these bones, identifying 45 distinct molecular features that set the bones of smokers apart from those of non-smokers.
The study, published in Science Advances, states: “Tobacco consumption leaves a metabolic record in human bone distinctive enough to identify its use in individuals of unknown tobacco consumption. Archaeological human skeletal remains have the potential to provide direct evidence that can be used to study past pathological and health conditions, including diseases associated with tobacco use.”
Dr. Sarah Inskip, a co-author of the study, noted, “Our research shows significant differences in the molecular features of bones from past tobacco users and non-users. This finding indicates that tobacco use impacts the structure of our skeletons. Our ongoing research aims to underst
and how these differences emerge, 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 cancers, as well as stroke and coronary artery disease-are well-documented, its impact on bones has been less explored. Smoking has been linked to bone-related conditions, including low bone density, an increased risk of fractures, and periodontitis.
This research not only illuminates the historical prevalence of smoking but also underscores the extensive and enduring impact of tobacco on human health, offering valuable insights into the skeletal consequences of this widespread habit.