Lung Cancer Risk from Inhaled vs. Non-Inhaled Cigarette Smoke: What You Need to Know

Yes, you can still get lung cancer, cancer and other health risks even if you do not inhale cigarette smoke. While inhaling cigarette smoke is generally thought to be the most harmful, holding the smoke in your mouth can still expose your lungs to harmful substances. Many of the toxic chemicals in cigarette smoke can be absorbed through the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, and esophagus, increasing the risk of developing lung cancer, mouth cancer, throat cancer, and other smoking-related health issues.