Update on the approach to smoking in patients with respiratory diseases.

Smoking is the leading cause of respiratory disease (RD). The harmful effects of smoking on the respiratory system begin in utero and influence immune responses throughout childhood and adult life. In comparison with "healthy" smokers, smokers with RD have peculiarities that can impede smoking cessation, such as a higher level of nicotine dependence; nicotine withdrawal; higher levels of exhaled carbon monoxide; low motivation and low self-efficacy; greater concern about weight gain; and a high prevalence of anxiety and depression.

Tobacco influence in heavy metals levels in head and neck cancer cases.

Heavy metals intoxication is known to be risk factors for various diseases, including cancer. These metals may be presented in food and soil as well as in leaf and tobacco smoke. The aim of this study was to correlate the exposure to heavy metals stemming from tobacco and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma carcinogenesis.

Genetic polymorphisms in the Cytochrome P450 family and squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, pharynx and larynx.

Objective: To analyze the genetic polymorphisms of the cytochrome P450 family and their relationship with squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, pharynx and larynx.

Methods: We present a narrative literature review, conducted in PubMed, Lilacs and Cochrane Databases of articles published in the last five years correlating genetic polymorphisms of the cytochrome P450 family and cancer risk in different populations worldwide.

Results: We initially found 65 articles and, after selection criteria, 20 case-control studies with various populations worldwide were eligible.

Nicotine dependence and smoking habits in patients with head and neck cancer.

Objective: To assess smoking habits and nicotine dependence (ND) in patients with head and neck cancer Methods: This study involved 71 smokers or former smokers with squamous cell carcinoma in the oral cavity, pharynx, or larynx who were treated at a university hospital in the city of São Paulo between January and May of 2010. We used the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence to evaluate smoking habits and ND in the sample. Data regarding cancer treatment were collected from medical records.