Chemical Knowledge in Tobacco: Scientific Principles and Evidence of Smoking Hazards, Tobacco Control, and Smoking Cessation
FAN Han-Han1**, YANG Jian-Rui1, ZHU Jiu-Juan1, FENG Jia-Jing1, REN Jia2, DING Bao2
1. School of Science, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China; 2. Office of Laboratory and Equipment Management, China University of Geosciences (Beijing), Beijing 100083, China
Abstract The global spread of tobacco is deeply intertwined with humanity’s understanding of its chemical properties. From its ceremonial use by native American to its commercialization after the industrial revolution, and the rise of modern harm reduction technologies, chemical knowledge has been the driving force behind both the evolution of tobacco and health-related research. This article reviews the discovery of tobacco’s chemical constituents, the chemical evolution of processing techniques, the mechanisms of harm induced by smoking process, and the scientific basis of tobacco control technologies. It highlights the pivotal role of chemistry in the history of tobacco and provides perspectives for future research.
FAN Han-Han, YANG Jian-Rui, ZHU Jiu-Juan, FENG Jia-Jing, REN Jia, DING Bao. Chemical Knowledge in Tobacco: Scientific Principles and Evidence of Smoking Hazards, Tobacco Control, and Smoking Cessation[J]. Chinese Journal of Chemical Education, 2026, 47(5): 1-7.
