Tobacco-specific nitrosamine

Tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs) are a group of carcinogens found predominantly in tobacco products. They are formed from nicotine and other tobacco alkaloids during the curing, fermentation, and aging of tobacco. TSNAs are among the most potent carcinogens present in smokeless tobacco, snuff, and cigarette smoke.

Formation and Presence

TSNAs are formed during the curing and processing of tobacco. They are produced by nitrosation of the tobacco alkaloids nicotine, nornicotine, anatabine, and anabasine. The nitrosation process can occur during the curing, fermentation, and aging of tobacco. The levels of TSNAs can vary widely depending on the type of tobacco product and the methods used in its production.

Health Effects

TSNAs are potent carcinogens. They are associated with various types of cancer, including lung, esophageal, oral, and pancreatic cancers. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified some TSNAs, such as N'-nitrosonornicotine (NNN) and 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK), as Group 1 carcinogens, meaning they are carcinogenic to humans.

Regulation

In many countries, the levels of TSNAs in tobacco products are regulated. For example, in the European Union, the Tobacco Products Directive (2014/40/EU) sets maximum levels for NNN and NNK in smokeless tobacco products.

See Also

• Nicotine
• Carcinogen
• Tobacco
• Cancer

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