The Biology of Smoking & Vaping

These vocabulary flashcards encompass crucial terms related to the biology of smoking and vaping, capturing essential definitions and concepts for effective exam preparation.

Nicotine

A highly addictive chemical found in tobacco that stimulates the release of neurotransmitters, leading to pleasurable sensations.

Secondhand smoke

Smoke that comes from burning tobacco and smoke exhaled by the smoker, which can harm non-smokers.

EVALI

E-cigarette or vaping associated lung injury characterized by lung damage following vaping.

Emphysema

A chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) characterized by damaged alveolar walls that makes breathing difficult.

Chronic Bronchitis

An inflammation of the airways, leading to mucus production and a persistent cough, typically caused by smoking.

Carcinogen

A substance capable of causing cancer by damaging DNA or promoting uncontrolled cell growth.

Pulmonary Disease

A category of diseases affecting the lungs, which can be caused or exacerbated by smoking and vaping.

Cardiovascular Disease

Diseases that affect the heart and blood vessels, often linked to smoking and nicotine use.

Tar

A sticky substance produced from tobacco smoke that can paralyze and kill cilia in the lungs.

Diacetyl

A chemical used in e-cigarette flavoring that is linked to popcorn lung, causing inflammation and permanent lung damage.

Withdrawal symptoms

Physical and psychological symptoms experienced when an individual stops using nicotine, including anxiety and headaches.

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)

A treatment using medicated patches, gum, or lozenges to help individuals reduce withdrawal symptoms when quitting smoking.

Atherosclerosis

A condition caused by the build-up of plaque in the arteries, leading to reduced blood flow and increased risk of heart disease.

Gas exchange

The process by which oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged between the alveoli and the bloodstream.

Alveoli

Small air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs; damaged by smoking, making it difficult to breathe.

Nicotine addiction

A compulsive need for nicotine caused by its pleasurable effects on neurotransmitters in the brain.

Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter that plays a role in attention, cognition, and the response to nicotine.

Pulmonary scarring

Damage to lung tissue resulting from inflammation and harmful substances, which can impair lung function.

Oral cancers

Cancers that occur in the mouth, throat, or surrounding areas, often associated with tobacco use.

Passive smoking

Inhalation of tobacco smoke by non-smokers due to proximity to smokers, causing health risks without direct use.

Vitamin E acetate

A substance linked to EVALI; when inhaled, it can cause serious lung injury.

Cilia

Hair-like structures in the lungs that help trap and expel harmful particles and microbes.

Nicotine withdrawal symptoms

Physical and psychological effects, such as irritability and restlessness, experienced after stopping nicotine use.

Flavoring agents

Chemicals added to vaping liquids to enhance flavor, some of which can be harmful to lung health.

COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, characterized by limited airflow.

Hydrogen cyanide

A toxic compound found in tobacco smoke that can paralyze lung cilia and contribute to respiratory diseases.

Carbon monoxide

A poisonous gas produced by burning tobacco that decreases oxygen delivery in the body.

Acrolein

A toxic compound found in tobacco smoke that can cause permanent lung damage.