Cigars and cigarettes may seem similar, but the differences go far beyond size. Cigarettes are typically small, wrapped in paper, and contain less than 1 gram of unfermented tobacco. They’re made to be inhaled and usually smoked in under 10 minutes. In contrast, cigars are made from fermented tobacco wrapped in tobacco leaf, come in various sizes, and can contain up to 20 grams of tobacco—some taking up to 2 hours to smoke. Unlike cigarette smokers, most cigar smokers don’t inhale, but that doesn’t mean they’re safe. Cigar smoke contains higher levels of cancer-causing nitrosamines, tar, and other toxic chemicals due to its fermentation process and nonporous wrappers. Even without inhaling, cigar smokers are still at high risk for oral, throat, and esophageal cancers—and secondhand smoke from cigars is particularly harmful indoors.
Key Facts:
- Cigars contain 1–20x more tobacco than cigarettes.
- Cigar smoke is higher in carcinogens and toxins.
- Even without inhaling, cigar use can cause cancer.
- One large cigar may contain as much nicotine as a pack of cigarettes.
- All tobacco products are harmful—there is no safe level of use.
Whether it’s a little cigar or a large one, the health risks are real and significant. Cigars are not a safer alternative to cigarettes. If you’re thinking about quitting, talk to your doctor about nicotine replacement therapies or find support through quitlines and counseling. Your health—and the health of those around you—is worth it.
Reducing youth tobacco use contributes to overall community health and safety.
** 吸烟有害健康 (Xīyān yǒuhài jiànkāng) – Smoking is harmful to health. **
Reference: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/tobacco/cigars-fact-sheet
