New evidence that smokeless tobacco damages DNA and key enzymes
Thursday, June 17, 2010 - 21:30
in Health & Medicine
Far from having adverse effects limited to the mouth, smokeless tobacco affects the normal function of a key family of enzymes found in almost every organ in the body, according to a new study. The enzymes play important roles in production of hormones; production of cholesterol and vitamin D; and help the body breakdown prescription drugs and potentially toxic substances. Smokeless tobacco also damages genetic material in the liver, kidney and lungs.