Cigarettes contain many hazardous substances that damage the lung when inhaled, including tar nicotine, carbon monoxide, and cyanide. Long-term exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke and/or repeated respiratory infections also can increase a person's risk for chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder.

Review Date: 8/13/2002 12:00:00 AM Reviewed By:A.D.A.M. Medical Illustration Team

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