Passive smoking

Health effects of involuntary inhalation of tobacco smoke

Secondhand smoke in a public place

Passive smoking, also known as secondhand smoke, refers to the involuntary inhalation of smoke by non-smokers who are in the vicinity of active smokers. This smoke is a combination of "sidestream smoke" from the burning end of a cigarette, cigar, or pipe, and "mainstream smoke" exhaled by the smoker. Passive smoking is a significant public health concern due to its association with various health risks.

Health Effects

Passive smoking has been linked to numerous health problems in both adults and children. In adults, it increases the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer. In children, exposure to secondhand smoke is associated with sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), asthma, respiratory infections, and ear infections.

Cardiovascular Disease

Exposure to secondhand smoke can lead to the development of cardiovascular diseases. It is estimated that passive smoking increases the risk of heart disease by 25-30% in non-smokers. The chemicals in tobacco smoke can damage the lining of blood vessels, leading to atherosclerosis and increased risk of heart attacks.

Respiratory Problems

Secondhand smoke is a known cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. It contains over 7,000 chemicals, many of which are toxic and at least 70 are known to cause cancer. In addition to lung cancer, passive smoking can exacerbate asthma and lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Effects on Children

Children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of passive smoking. Exposure can lead to a range of health issues, including increased frequency and severity of asthma attacks, respiratory infections, and a higher risk of developing lung cancer later in life.

Exposure to secondhand smoke by age, race, and poverty level in the US

Prevention and Legislation

Many countries have implemented smoking bans in public places to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke. These bans have been shown to decrease the incidence of heart attacks and improve public health outcomes. Public awareness campaigns also play a crucial role in educating the public about the dangers of passive smoking.

Measurement of Exposure

Exposure to secondhand smoke can be measured using various methods, including the detection of nicotine or cotinine (a metabolite of nicotine) in the blood, saliva, or urine. Breath carbon monoxide (CO) monitors can also be used to assess exposure levels.

A breath CO monitor used to measure exposure to tobacco smoke

Also see

• Smoking ban
• Tobacco smoking
• Health effects of tobacco
• Environmental tobacco smoke