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International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) - Summaries & Evaluations

N'-NITROSONORNICOTINE

VOL.: 17 (1978) (p. 281)

5. Summary of Data Reported and Evaluation

5.1 Experimental data

N'-Nitrosonornicotine is carcinogenic in rats, mice and Syrian golden hamsters. Following its oral administration to rats, it produces carcinomas of the upper digestive tract, mainly the oesophagus, and of the nasal cavities. In hamsters, its subcutaneous injection produces mainly tracheal tumours. In mice, its intraperitoneal injection produces lung tumours.

5.2 Human data

No case reports or epidemiological studies were available to the Working Group. Available information on occurrence suggests that tobacco users are exposed to N'-nitrosonornicotine together with other N-nitroso compounds.

5.3 Evaluation

There is sufficient evidence of a carcinogenic effect of N'-nitrosonornicotine in several experimental animal species. Although no epidemiological data were available, N'-nitrosonornicotine should be regarded for practical purposes as if it were carcinogenic to humans.

Subsequent evaluations: Vol. 37 (1985); Suppl. 7 (1987) (p. 68: Group 2B)

For definition of terms, see Preamble Evaluation.


Last updated: 27 March 1998




























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