Passive smoking, also known as involuntary smoking, occurs when a non-smoker is exposed to what technically is called "environmental tobacco smoke," according to the National Institutes of Health. Secondhand smoke is a combination of both smoke from the lit end of a cigarette as well as smoke exhaled from the actual smoker. Secondhand smoke results in the introduction of nicotine and other toxic materials into the indirect smoker's body.
Effects
Because secondhand smoke introduces harmful chemicals into a non-smoker's system, that individual runs the risk of developing essentially the same types of ailments and diseases afflicting smokers. Although the smoke that enters into a person's body on a secondhand basis is more diffuse, it remains dangerous.
Types of Diseases
The American Cancer Society reports that an estimated 46,000 deaths occur in the United States annually from heart disease experienced by non-smokers living with smokers. In addition, about 3,400 lung cancer deaths occur in America annually of people living in this type of situation. Secondhand smoke causes upwards to 300,000 cases of lung infections each year.
Misconceptions
A recurring misconception is that secondhand smoke is not particularly harmful. However, there is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke, according to the National Cancer Institute. Minimizing contact with secondhand spoke may reduce the risk of some, but not all, diseases, ailments and conditions that exposure causes.
Time Frame
Secondhand smoke presents both short-term as well as long-term effects. Lung infections can occur with very little exposure to secondhand smoke. Cancer and heart disease develop over time. Children, senior citizens and individuals with other health issues suffers from the effects of smoking in shorter periods of time.
Prevention/Solution
The complete elimination of secondhand smoke is the only sure course to take to prevent disease and ailments. Limiting smoking to certain parts of a public building typically is not sufficient to fully eliminate secondhand smoke because of the very nature of smoke.
