Passive smoking is a serious health risk for both those who smoke and those who do not. Children are particularly at risk of serious health effects from second-hand smoke. The best way to protect loved ones is to quit smoking.
Environmental cigarette smoke is classified as a first category carcinogenic substance, ie it is considered a substance that causes cancer regardless of the amount that has been absorbed.
Risks of passive smoking:
- Second-hand smoke has been confirmed as a cause of lung cancer in humans by several leading health authorities.
- Passive smoking increases the risk of respiratory illnesses in children, including asthma, bronchitis and pneumonia.
- Pregnant women exposed to passive smoke are more prone to premature birth and their baby is more at risk of low birth-weight and cot death.
- Second- Hand smoking increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.