A recent study conducted in Great Britain showed that smoking affects bones, leaving chemical traces that remain in the bones of smokers forever. Dr. Sara Ensku, an archaeological anthropologist and the lead author of the study, noted significant differences in the molecular characteristics of the bones of former smokers and non-smokers. "Our research showed that we can see the influence of smoking on the structure of our bones," she added.
The researchers created a method for detecting molecular traces of tobacco smoke in the cortical bones - dense tissues that form the outer layer of bones and provide them with strength. These traces can be found even in the bones of those who died centuries ago, making it possible to determine whether a person was a smoker or not by studying the stains on teeth or other markers.
Researchers from the University of Leicester analyzed remains of individuals buried in England between 1150 and 1855 AD. During the study, 323 skeletons were examined, found in two burial sites in England. The researchers discovered that some of them were smokers.
The scientists warned that traces of tobacco can remain in the bones of a person for centuries after their death. Published results of the study show photographs of the bones and skulls of individuals who had died many years ago, demonstrating the difference between the bones of smokers and non-smokers.
