The Effects Smoking on Toddlers

Exposure to secondhand smoke can cause physical and behavioral issues in toddlers.

Secondhand smoke has been scientifically proven to be harmful to people of any age, however, the risk is especially great for children. Passive smoking, also known as exposure to secondhand smoke, can adversely affect a child's physical, psychological and behavioral development.

Health Concerns

Children regularly exposed to secondhand smoke have increased risk of developing respiratory issues including asthma. The child may experience impaired lung development. Chronic ear infections are also common.

Temporary Health Effects

Instances of coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and sore throat are all common in children exposed to secondhand smoke. However, when the child is removed from the smoking environment these issues subside.

Behavioral Development

Children regularly exposed to secondhand smoke can develop oppositional defiance or conflict disorders toward authority and adults. Instances of impulsiveness, aggression, depression and rebelliousness are also common.

Mental Functioning

Consistent exposure to secondhand smoke can debilitate a child's ability to learn due to impaired concentration and may result in learning disabilities.

Potential Long-Term Effects

Long-term exposure to a smoking environment can result in an increased risk of developing chronic bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, lung disorders and hearing loss.

Exposure to secondhand smoke is commonly referred to as passive smoking.

References

• EPA: Health Effects of Passive Smoking
• American Lung Association
• U.S. National Library of Medicine

Resources

• Maternal Smoking During Pregnancy
• American Cancer Society
• Department of Health and Human Services