Levels of cadmium in cigarette brands found in Zamfara state, northwestern Nigeria

Abstract

The levels of cadmium were determined in some cigarette brands found in Zamfara state, North-west Nigeria. The solutions of the samples were prepared using the dry-ash method. The levels of cadmium in the solution were determined using atomic absorption spectrometer. The absorbance readings of the elements were recorded and calibrated graphs of concentration against absorbance were plotted. The standard absorbance reading was extrapolated from the graph and the concentration of individual solutions were detected. The average concentrations were 0.25+/-0.00(μg/g) for Excel^®, 0.308+/-0.072(μg/g) for Millennium^®, 0.242+/-0.058(μg/g) for Rhino Gold^®, 0.583+/-0.454(μg/g) for London^®, 0.458+/-0.115(μg/g) for Super Kings^®, 0.108+/-0.101(μg/g0 for Yes^®, 0.208+-/0.144 (μg/g) for ST. Moritz^®, 0.050+/-0.000(μg/g) for Benson and Hedges^®, 0.158+/-0.15(μg/g) for Marlboro®, 0.125+/-0.000(μg/g) for Gold Leaf®, 0.100 +/-0.433(μg/g) for Aspen^®, 0.033+/-0.144(μg/g) for Three Rings^®, 0.158+/-0.072(μg/g) for Eston^®, 0.167+/-0.029(μg/g) for Rothman^® and 0.158+/-0.072(μg/g) for Standard^®. There is need for public enlightenment on the health hazards of cigarette smoking. It is recommended that cigarette smoking should be controlled in the state, especially among the effluents groups.

Keywords: Cadmium, cigarette, dry-Ash, health hazards, Nigeria

International Journal of Natural and Applied Sciences, 6(1): 105-108, 2010