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'Normal' cigarette smoking increases free cortisol in habitual smokers
C Kirschbaum1, S Wüst, C J Strasburger
1Department of Clinical and Physiological Psychology, University of Trier, Germany.
Life Sciences
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Cigarette smoking, even in moderate amounts, can increase cortisol levels in habitual smokers. This study found higher salivary cortisol in smokers compared to non-smokers, suggesting smoking impacts stress hormone regulation.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Behavioral Science
- Nicotine Research
Background:
- Cigarette smoking is a widespread habit with known health implications.
- The physiological effects of nicotine on the endocrine system, particularly cortisol regulation, require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the salivary cortisol responses in habitual smokers following cigarette smoking.
- To compare cortisol output between smokers and non-smokers over a 12-hour period.
Main Methods:
- Study 1: 31 adult smokers smoked one or two cigarettes; salivary cortisol levels were measured.
- Study 2: 10 smokers and 10 non-smokers provided saliva samples every 20 minutes for 12 hours.
Main Results:
- Smoking two cigarettes significantly elevated mean salivary cortisol levels.
- Smokers exhibited significantly higher overall cortisol output compared to non-smokers, despite parallel environmental stimuli.
Conclusions:
- Habitual cigarette smoking can lead to increased levels of free cortisol.
- Nicotine exposure from smoking appears to influence the body's stress hormone system.