Understanding the Dangers of Passive Smoke

Passive smoking is the exposure to dilute cigarette smoke which consists of a combination of gas and particle elements that are derived from a lit cigarette while the smoker is not puffing. While considerable research has been dedicated to the detrimental health impacts associated with smoking, there is now even greater and growing focus on the impact of passive smoke on individuals. Passive smoke, in essence contains uncountable cytotoxic substances, poisonous gases, pesticide revenues as well as radioactive elements that are found to be in far greater concentration as compared to mainstream cigarette smoke. Needless to say, the number of deaths due to the diseases caused by passive smoking, such as cancer and cardiac issues, is alarmingly increasing.

Passive smoking is also considered to be excessively harmful for the nervous system, reproductive organs and genetic materials. The acute effects of passive smoking include irritation, impaired lung function, allergies such as late development of asthma and wheezing, increased risks for stroke and neurotoxicity and behavioral effects. Surprisingly, a number of studies have linked maternal smoking (during and after pregnancy) to behavioral changes among women, pointing more towards antisocial behavior. Such individuals also suffer from impulsivity or aggressive behavior. For children, these behavioral changes are more disastrous as they are linked directly to learning difficulties. Lastly, there exists sufficient evidence to support the fact that chronic exposure to passive smoke leads to various malignancies.

The role of health professionals needs to be highlighted in this scenario in an effort to educate individuals regarding a healthy lifestyle. Even though the first step to a healthy life is based on primary prevention which is also the most effective strategy in this case; physicians need to disseminate accurate information based on recent studies regarding the hazards of second hand tobacco smoke. It is one of the basic human rights to be able to live a healthy life. Consequently, the right to not be forced into illness because of factors such as second hand smoke also needs to be considered the same.