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Published online 30 August 2007 | Nature | doi:10.1038/news070827-5

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Smoking stays in your genes after you quit

Cigarette habit may leave a molecular mark.

Gene expression changes brought on by heavy smoking may persist long after the smoker has kicked the habit, researchers have found. The results could provide a molecular explanation for the continued increased risk of lung cancer and other pulmonary ailments among former smokers.

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