New research from Leicester University uncovers the profound effects of tobacco on human skeletons, indicating changes that endure long after death. The study analyzed 177 skeletons from urban and rural cemeteries, revealing distinct molecular signatures in smokers' bones. By focusing on the bone metabolome, researchers established a method for detecting historical tobacco use and its health implications. This groundbreaking work highlights how tobacco consumption has permanently altered skeletal structure and provides insights into its long-term health risks, offering a clearer understanding of its impact on past and present generations.