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