Tobacco Smoke
The Dangers of Secondhand Smoke
Secondhand smoke, also known as environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), is produced by smoke from both a burning cigarette and exhaled by smokers.
The airborne chemicals in secondhand smoke create a toxic environment for anyone in close proximity to a smoker.
Secondhand smoke can cause irritation to the eyes, nose and throat and can also irritate the lungs and lead to coughing and chest discomfort.
Asthma symptoms can be triggered if you smoke or someone with asthma is around smoke. In addition, there is some evidence that young children exposed to smoke in their first year of life are at an increased risk of developing asthma.
To reduce your exposure to smoke, you can do the following:
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If you smoke, QUIT!
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Do not smoke in your home or car and do not allow others to do so.
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Do not smoke around children.
To learn more about the effects of smoking and smoking cessation programs, please visit the DPH
Links to more resources:
- 211 State Smoking Quitline
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- American Lung Association (ALA)