World No Tobacco Day: Passive Smoking And How It Is Harming You

Respiratory Issues: Secondhand smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals, which can lead to respiratory problems such as coughing, wheezing, and the exacerbation of asthma symptoms.

Increased Risk of Cancer: Non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke are at an increased risk of developing lung cancer, as well as other cancers like breast and cervical cancer.

Heart Disease: Secondhand smoke exposure can cause coronary heart disease and increase the risk of heart attacks among non-smokers.

Children's Health: Children exposed to secondhand smoke are particularly vulnerable, facing an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), respiratory infections, ear infections, and asthma attacks.

Pregnancy Complications: Pregnant women exposed to secondhand smoke are at higher risk of delivering babies with low birth weight, premature birth, and other complications.

Worsening Existing Conditions: For people with pre-existing health conditions such as asthma or allergies, exposure to secondhand smoke can worsen symptoms and lead to more frequent attacks.

Impaired Lung Function: Non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke may experience reduced lung function, making physical activities more challenging and leading to a decreased overall quality of life.

Environmental Pollution: Secondhand smoke contributes to indoor air pollution, affecting not only the health of individuals but also the overall air quality of indoor spaces.

Social Implications: Exposure to secondhand smoke can lead to social discomfort and exclusion, as non-smokers may avoid places where smoking is allowed to minimise their exposure.

Economic Burden: The healthcare costs associated with treating illnesses caused by secondhand smoke are substantial, placing a burden on healthcare systems and society as a whole.

Inputs By: Dr. Viswesvaran Balasubramanian, Consultant, Interventional Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad