Second-hand smoke, commonly known as passive smoking, poses significant health risks. It consists of the smoke emitted from a lit cigarette as well as the smoke breathed out by the smoker. In a discussion with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Vivek Nangia, vice chairman and head of pulmonology at Max Super Speciality Hospital in Saket, stated, “Although many individuals recognize the risks associated with smoking, fewer understand that being exposed to second-hand smoke can be equally detrimental to non-smokers, especially to at-risk groups such as children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory issues.”

Exposure to carcinogens:

Second-hand smoke is composed of more than 7,000 chemicals, of which at least 250 are recognized as toxic, and approximately 70 are identified as carcinogenic. Among these hazardous substances are nicotine, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, benzene, arsenic, ammonia, and hydrogen cyanide. When non-smokers breathe in second-hand smoke, they are subjected to the same harmful chemicals that smokers inhale, thereby heightening their risk of numerous health issues.

Risk of heart diseases:

Exposure to second-hand smoke poses a major public health issue, as it can result in severe health problems for non-smokers. Among the most critical dangers is the heightened risk of heart disease. This exposure can harm blood vessels, elevate blood pressure, and ultimately contribute to heart attacks and strokes.

Risk of cancer:

Lung cancer represents a significant risk linked to second-hand smoke. Individuals who have never smoked are also at a heightened risk, as extended exposure can greatly elevate their likelihood of developing lung cancer.

Worsens respiratory conditions:

Inhaling second-hand smoke can initiate or exacerbate respiratory issues, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Non-smokers residing with smokers frequently experience heightened coughing, increased mucus production, chest pain, and a greater incidence of respiratory infections.

Effect on babies and pregnant women:

Children are especially susceptible to the impacts of second-hand smoke, as their lungs and immune systems are in the process of development. Infants who encounter second-hand smoke, either during pregnancy or after birth, face an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Additionally, pregnant women exposed to second-hand smoke are more likely to give birth to infants with low birth weight, which can result in issues such as developmental delays and compromised immune systems.

Asthma attacks:

Exposure to second-hand smoke poses significant health risks for young children, heightening the likelihood of respiratory infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia. Furthermore, it can exacerbate asthma, resulting in more frequent and severe attacks, complicating the management of the condition for affected children. Additionally, second-hand smoke exposure has been associated with a greater risk of middle ear infections, which can lead to hearing issues and may necessitate medical treatment.

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