3.2.9

Lung Disease Data

Test yourself

Smoking and Lung Cancer

Smoking can have harmful impacts on lung function. Cigarette smoke contains harmful chemical such as nicotine, carbon monoxide and carcinogens (cancer-causing chemicals).

Illustrative background for BronchitisIllustrative background for Bronchitis ?? "content

Bronchitis

  • When smoke is breathed in, it damages the cilia cells of the airways.
  • This means the cilia can't waft away the mucus produced by goblet cells, and the mucus builds up.
  • This can lead to bronchitis, where the airways are partly blocked with mucus.
Illustrative background for CancersIllustrative background for Cancers ?? "content

Cancers

  • The carcinogens can cause tumours to form in the airways.
    • Smoking can cause mouth, throat and lung cancers.
Illustrative background for Emphysema Illustrative background for Emphysema  ?? "content

Emphysema

  • Smoke damages the walls of the alveoli, reducing their surface area.
  • This can cause emphysema, where gas exchange can't happen efficiently, causing shortness of breath.
Illustrative background for Heart disease and strokesIllustrative background for Heart disease and strokes ?? "content

Heart disease and strokes

  • Nicotine is very addictive and puts strain on the heart.
  • Carbon monoxide reduces the ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen, which can also put strain on the heart.
  • Both of these substances can cause heart disease and strokes.

Jump to other topics

1Biological Molecules

2Cells

3Substance Exchange

4Genetic Information & Variation

5Energy Transfers (A2 only)

6Responding to Change (A2 only)

7Genetics & Ecosystems (A2 only)

8The Control of Gene Expression (A2 only)

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson