Passive Smoking

🚭 Passive Smoking: The Hidden Threat of Second-Hand Smoke

Health Hazard | Silent Danger

What is Passive Smoking?
Passive smoking, also known as second-hand or environmental tobacco smoke, occurs when a non-smoker breathes in the toxic fumes left behind by a burning or recently extinguished cigarette. It also includes exposure to smoke by unborn babies through their smoking mothers.

Types of Passive Smoke

1. Mainstream Smoke – Inhaled and exhaled directly by the smoker.

2. Side-stream Smoke – Emitted from the lit end of a cigarette and is more toxic.

3. Third-hand Smoke – Residual toxins that settle on clothes, furniture, and other surfaces after smoking.

☠️ Health Risks of Passive Smoking

🔸 In Adults

• Lung cancer

• Chronic cough and wheezing

• Coronary heart disease

• Increased risk of respiratory illness

🔸 In Children

• Triggering or worsening of asthma

• Cough, wheezing, and breathing issues

• Middle ear infections

• Long-term lung development issues

The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies passive smoke as carcinogenic, with no safe level of exposure.

⚠️ Did You Know?

More than 4,000 chemicals are released during tobacco combustion. Among them, over 250 are toxic, and more than 50 are known to cause cancer.