Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) or "secondhand smoke", is the complex mixture of chemicals generated during the burning of tobacco products. The principal contributor to ETS is "side stream smoke" - the material emitted from smoldering tobacco products between puffs. Other components of ETS include exhaled mainstream smoke; mainstream smoke emitted at the mouthpiece as the smoker inhales a puff, and the compounds diffused through the wrapper.
The characteristics of ETS change as it ages and combines with other constituents in the ambient air. Exposure to ETS is also frequently referred to as "passive smoking", or "involuntary tobacco smoke" exposure.
Constituents and Properties of tobacco smoke
Tobacco smoke contains over 4,000 chemicals in the form of particles and gases. Many potentially toxic gases are present in higher concentrations in side stream smoke than in mainstream smoke. And nearly 85% of the smoke in a room results from side stream smoke.
Effects on children
Children exposed to secondhand smoke would have serious health risks. The developing lungs of young children are affected by exposure to secondhand smoke, and they will have increased risk of lower respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis. Children exposed to secondhand smoke are also more likely to have reduced lung function and symptoms of respiratory irritation like cough, excess phlegm, and wheeze. Passive smoking can lead to buildup of fluid in the middle, the most common cause of hospitalization children for an operation. Moreover, asthmatic children who are exposed to secondhand smoke have their condition made worse.
To protect your family and friends from exposure to smoking and its negative impacts, quit smoking now! |
