Study Finds Even a Little Cigarette Smoke Harms Airway - US News and World Report

Study Finds Even a Little Cigarette Smoke Harms Airway - US News and World Report:

"according to a new study that finds even low levels of smoke exposure can cause irreparable damage...

The damage occurred among 'casual' smokers and even after exposure to secondhand smoke. The initial damage, while not usually severe, can be cumulative and prolonged exposure to tobacco smoke could lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and even lung cancer, the researchers reported.

and later

"The bottom line: "There is no level of cigarette smoking or exposure to cigarette smoke that does not make the cells in your lungs sick," he said. "If you are an occasional smoker you are still at risk. Don't think that smoking one or two cigarettes a week means you are home free."

The study was based on urine tests and examination of genes looking for DNA damage.