How many are exposed to tobacco smoke pollution?

Worldwide, people from all countries and cultures are exposed to tobacco smoke pollution, also known as second-hand smoke (SHS) and environmental tobacco smoke (ETS).

Exposure occurs at home, in the workplace, public transport, restaurants, bars, etc. It is estimated that over 50% of children worldwide are exposed to tobacco smoke pollution in their homes (International Consultation on Environmental Tobacco Smoke and Child Health WHO/NCD/TFI/99.11).

What are the effects of tobacco smoke pollution on the health of adults?

Carcinogenic effects of tobacco smoke pollution

In June 2002, a scientific working group of 29 experts from 12 countries reviewed all significant published evidence related to tobacco smoking and cancer, both active and involuntary. Its conclusions confirmed the cancer-causing effects of active smoking. It also concluded its evaluation of the carcinogenic risks associated with involuntary smoking and classified second-hand smoke as carcinogenic to humans. 1

There is clear scientific evidence of an increased risk of lung cancer in non-smokers exposed to tobacco smoke pollution. This increased risk is estimated at 20% in women and 30% in men who live with a smoker.2 Similarly, it has been shown that non-smokers exposed to tobacco smoke pollution in the workplace have a 16 to 19% increased risk of developing lung cancer.3 The risk of presenting lung cancer increases with the degree of exposure.

The Californian Environmental Protection Agency (Cal EPA) estimates that tobacco smoke pollution causes 3000 deaths each year due to lung cancer in non-smokers. Other health effects of tobacco smoke pollution.

It has also been shown that non-smokers exposed to tobacco smoke pollution have a 25% to 35% increased risk of suffering acute coronary diseases. 4Chronic respiratory conditions are also more frequent in non-smokers exposed to tobacco smoke pollution.5 There is evidence linking tobacco smoke pollution to other adverse effects in adults including exacerbation of asthma and reduced lung function. What are the effects of tobacco smoke pollution on children's health?

Small children whose parents smoke at home have an increased risk of suffering lower tract respiratory infections and otitis media. Tobacco smoke pollution has also been linked to an increase in the number and severity of asthma episodes in asthmatic children. There is also evidence that tobacco smoke pollution increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

How to protect the passive smoker?

Recognize that everyone has the right to breathe air not contaminated with tobacco smoke.

Recognize that all workers have the right to work in places where they are not exposed to the harmful effects of tobacco smoke pollution.

Increase consciousness that smoking harms not only the person who smokes but also those around him/her.