Are Cigars and Pipes Less Hazardous then Cigarettes?
No. They are actually more harmful than cigarettes. Both contain higher levels of tar and nicotine than cigarettes. Also, the smoke emitted from cigars and pipes is more concentrated and is more harmful to non-smokers. In order to derive nicotine from the tobacco used in cigarettes the smoker must inhale the smoke. Cigarette smoke is slightly acidic and its nicotine does not penetrate the mouth tissues. This is not the case with cigar or pipe smoke. Cigar and pipe smoke is alkaline which permits the nicotine to enter the bloodstream through the mucous tissues of the mouth. Remember that all smokers are at an increased risk of developing mouth, lip and tongue cancer, irrespective of what they smoke.