Smoking Linked to Changes in Bone Structure, New Study Finds
Researchers at the University of São Paulo report that exposure to cigarette smoke alters bone tissue. The findings were published in Scientific Reports, a peer‑reviewed journal known for its broad biological and medical coverage.
In this investigation, tissue samples were taken from the femoral head of individuals who had undergone total hip replacement surgery. By examining these samples, the team sought to understand how smoking might affect bone integrity at the microscopic level.
The analysis revealed notable differences between smokers, former smokers, and people who never smoked. Specifically, bone volume was markedly reduced in smokers compared with non‑smokers. In addition, the proportion of type I collagen, the most abundant protein in bone, was lower in tissue from smokers and ex‑smokers than in non‑smokers. Prior work by the same group has already shown that cigarette smoke exposure diminishes type I collagen deposition and accelerates bone demineralization, contributing to greater bone fragility. These observations help explain why smoking is frequently linked to a higher risk of fractures and slower bone healing [citation: University of São Paulo].
Conversely, the study found higher levels of type V collagen in samples from individuals who smoked. In addition, smokers exhibited elevated inflammatory biomarkers, including IL‑6, IL‑1β, and TNF‑α, suggesting increased cellular turnover and a disruption in the system responsible for bone regeneration and injury repair. The combination of reduced type I collagen, increased type V collagen, and heightened inflammatory signals points to a shift in bone biology that can weaken bone strength and healing capacity [citation: University of São Paulo].
Looking ahead, the researchers suggest that these findings could pave the way for the development of new therapies aimed at preventing or treating bone fragility. By targeting the specific molecular changes associated with smoking, future drugs might help restore a healthier balance of collagen types and inflammation, supporting stronger bones and faster recovery after injuries [citation: University of São Paulo].