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The respiratory system includes the nose and the tubes leading to the lungs (the trachea and bronchi), as well as the lungs themselves. Because their job is to exchange gases, the lungs are vulnerable to chemicals both in the form of small particles, and as gases, vapours and mists. The lungs have a surface area of about 500 square feet (Rodricks) and come into contact with 20 kg of air each day (Stacey). Chemicals can cause a variety of damage to the lungs, including irritation, structural changes such as fibrosis, and cancer.

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