Investigation of Toxic Metals in the Tobacco of Pakistani Cigarettes Using Proton-Induced X-Ray Emission

Abstract

A particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) study has been carried out to find out whether available local and imported cigarette brands in Pakistan have elevated concentration of metals or not. The results are compared within the brands examined in this study and with the results of related studies in literature. A sum of 19 different cigarette brands was purchased randomly from different Pakistani markets which included local and imported brands. The concentration of elements like Cd, Pb, Zn, Fe, Mn, Ni, Cu, and Co was investigated. Results showed that different cigarette brands have different metal contents. The mean concentration of the heavy metals is Cd—4.92 μ g/g, Co—0.12 μ g/g, Cu—0.97 μ g/g, Ni—0.13 μ g/g, Pb—1.02 μ g/g, and Zn—12.91 μ g/g per dry weight. Compared with the reported results of other international studies, Pakistani cigarettes are observed to have lower heavy metal contents except for cadmium which was higher. This study will provide adequate data for all concerned depart-ments. This study will also create awareness among people about the toxicity of metals present in tobacco of cigarettes.