Experts have long been warning that tobacco and smoking are some of the highest causes of cancer. In fact, they are so dangerous that a warning to quit smoking is printed on the side of every cigarette carton sold.

Tobacco isn’t the only dangerous substance in a cigarette, which is why we’ve compiled some of the dangerous chemicals found in cigarettes and tobacco smoke as well as their effects on the human body.

Mercury

The Environmental Protection Agency has warned that mercury is a neurotoxin that can cause extreme amounts of damage to the body. Research has found that this chemical can cause behavioral changes, headaches, hypertension and changes to cardiovascular function at low exposure.

Carbon Monoxide

This chemical is extremely dangerous because it is odorless, colorless, and can have serious effects to humans exposed for long periods of time. CO poisoning displaces oxygen that should be inhaled, so it can lead to heart disease. Symptoms of CO poisoning include weakness, dizziness, shortness of breath and blurred vision.

Formaldehyde

This chemical is colorless and flammable, and it is naturally found as part of the metabolic process.  The National Cancer Institute warns that when formaldehyde makes up more than .1 ppm of air levels, the chemical can cause short-term health effects that include watery eyes, wheezing, and burning eyes and throat. Experts say that it is a probable carcinogen since some studies have found that people repeatedly exposed to it have had higher cases of nose and throat cancer.

Lead

Lead poisoning often occurs slowly, and the CDC says that side effects of it would be tiredness, irritation, loss of appetite, and distractedness. In addition, it can lead to high blood pressure and kidney disease.

Potassium Citrate

This chemical can sometimes be used to help rid the kidneys of acidic urine, but it is only prescribed if there is already a serious pre-existing problem. Side effects include nausea, stomach pain, dizziness, fast heartbeat, and muscle weakness.

Now you have even more reason to never pick up a cigarette!