Harmful Effects of Passive Smoke
Passive smoke is the smoke inhaled by non-smokers in the presence of smokers. According to Stop Smoking Today, tobacco contains about 4,000 chemicals, including more than 40 that cause cancer. When tobacco is smoked, these chemicals are released into the air. Smoke can cause immediate respiratory irritation, but the long-term effects are more deadly.
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Lung Cancer
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According to Medical News Today, environmental exposure to smoke increases risk of developing lung cancer by 24 to 100 percent, depending upon the amount and duration of exposure. People who work in confined spaces with smokers, such as in a bar or small office, are especially at risk.
Fetal/Infant Risk
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Passive smoke increases the risk of miscarriage and birth defects and is associated with low birth weight. Additionally, according to an Australian study reported by ABC News, infants exposed to passive smoke are at increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Respiratory Effects in Adults
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In the presence of passive smoke, adults with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may have an increase in cough, difficulty breathing and respiratory infections.
Respiratory Effects in Children
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Children exposed to passive smoke have impaired lung function with increases in both upper respiratory infections and lower respiratory infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis, and smoke can trigger more frequent and more severe asthma attacks.
Heart and Vessels
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The chemicals in smoke cause inflammation of arteries and veins, resulting in increased risk of coronary artery disease and peripheral vascular disease.
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- Photo Credit Illustration by Penubag at Wikimedia Commons PD
