Second hand smoke is the smoke that is exhaled by a smoker and the smoke that comes from the end of a smoking product. The smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals, including 70 known to cause cancer. Second hand smoke is harmful to both adults and children, and it can cause serious health problems. In this article, we will discuss the dangers of second hand smoke.
Increased Risk of Lung Cancer
Exposure to second hand smoke increases the risk of lung cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 7,330 non-smoking adults die of lung cancer each year as a result of exposure to second hand smoke. Second hand smoke is responsible for about 3,400 lung cancer deaths among non-smokers in the United States every year.
Respiratory Problems
Second hand smoke can cause respiratory problems, especially in children. Children exposed to second hand smoke are more likely to develop asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia. According to the American Lung Association, second hand smoke is responsible for up to 300,000 cases of lower respiratory tract infections in children under 18 months of age each year.
Increased Risk of Heart Disease
Exposure to second hand smoke can increase the risk of heart disease. According to the American Heart Association, second hand smoke is responsible for about 34,000 premature deaths from heart disease each year in the United States. Second hand smoke can also cause blood vessels to constrict, making it harder for blood to flow and increasing the risk of heart attack.
Increased Risk of Stroke
Exposure to second hand smoke can increase the risk of stroke. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, exposure to second hand smoke increases the risk of stroke by 20-30%. Second hand smoke can also cause blood vessels to constrict, making it harder for blood to flow and increasing the risk of stroke.
Increased Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
Exposure to second hand smoke can increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). According to the American SIDS Institute, babies who are exposed to second hand smoke are twice as likely to die from SIDS as babies who are not exposed to second hand smoke. Second hand smoke can also cause respiratory problems in infants, which can increase the risk of SIDS.
Reduced Lung Function
Exposure to second hand smoke can reduce lung function. According to the American Lung Association, exposure to second hand smoke can cause coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Second hand smoke can also make it harder for the lungs to work properly, which can lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Increased Risk of Ear Infections
Exposure to second hand smoke can increase the risk of ear infections, especially in children. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, exposure to second hand smoke is one of the most common causes of ear infections in children. Second hand smoke can also cause fluid buildup in the middle ear, which can lead to hearing problems.
Increased Risk of Dental Problems
Exposure to second hand smoke can increase the risk of dental problems. According to the American Dental Association, second hand smoke can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. Second hand smoke can also make it harder for the body to heal after dental procedures.
Increased Risk of Eye Problems
Exposure to second hand smoke can increase the risk of eye problems. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, second hand smoke can cause eye irritation, dryness, and redness. Second hand smoke can also increase the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
Reduced Fertility
Exposure to second hand smoke can reduce fertility. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, second hand smoke can cause damage to the reproductive system, making it harder to conceive. Second hand smoke can also increase the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth.
Conclusion
Second hand smoke is a serious health risk. It can cause a wide range of health problems, including lung cancer, respiratory problems, heart disease, stroke, SIDS, reduced lung function, ear infections, dental problems, eye problems, and reduced fertility. To protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of second hand smoke, avoid exposure to smoking and encourage smokers to quit.