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Medical advice: Effects of Passive smoking

 

Most of the smoke that hangs in a room is sidestream smoke, which contains higher levels of cancer-causing compounds than mainstream smoke. Second-hand smoke is a common indoor pollutant in the home, making passive smoking a serious health risk for both smokers and non-smokers. Children are particularly at risk of serious health effects from second-hand smoke.

 

Irritant effects

Tobacco smoke inside a room tends to hang in mid-air rather than disperse. Hot smoke rises, but tobacco smoke cools rapidly, which stops its upward climb. Since the smoke is heavier than the air, the smoke starts to descend. A heavy smoker who smokes indoors causes a permanent low-lying smoke cloud that other householders have no choice but to breathe.

 

Tobacco smoke contains around 4,000 chemicals, made up of particles and gases, over 50 of which are known to cause cancer. Second-hand smoke has been confirmed as a cause of lung cancer in humans by several leading health authorities. Compounds such as ammonia, sulphur and formaldehyde irritate the eyes, nose, throat and lungs. These compounds are especially harmful to people with respiratory conditions such as bronchitis or asthma. Exposure to second-hand smoke can either trigger or worsen symptoms.

 

Health risks to children

Children are especially vulnerable to the damaging effects of second-hand smoke. Some of the many health risks include:

 

Health risks to partners who have never smoked

People who have never smoked living with partners who smoke, are at increased risk of a range of tobacco-related diseases.

 

 

Reducing the risk of passive smoking

If the smoker is unwilling or unable to stop right now, there are various ways to help protect the health of their partner and children. Suggestions include:

A healthcare initiative by AsiaMed Connect in partnership with Apollo Hospitals Group- For free online medical consultation, send your queries to consultationamc@gmail.com

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