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SUMMER 2007 |
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h
e a l t h P R O M O T I O N
New study shows
long-term effects of smoking in the home
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Submitted Photo |
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A new study presented at
the American Thoracic Society 2007 International Conference in May
indicates another important reason to refrain from smoking around
children.
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By Mary Lynn Pender |
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A new study presented at the American
Thoracic Society 2007 International Conference in May indicates
another important reason to refrain from smoking around children.
The study concluded that exposure to secondhand smoke in the home
has lasting effects, likely causing significant damage even in
children who appear healthy and are without any signs of respiratory
problems.
These “healthy” children of smokers, who
do not have respiratory complaints or diagnosed lung problems, may still
be experiencing damaging changes in their airways that can lead to lung
diseases later in life. Even when children appear unaffected by the
smoking in the home, researchers have concluded that these children have
significantly reduced lung function similar to that seen in smokers.
This shows the importance of a smoke-free home.
Some of the well-known effects of exposure
to secondhand smoke range from eye irritation, headache and cough, to
serious illnesses such as cancer and heart disease. It is commonly known
that children who are exposed to secondhand smoke are more likely to
develop asthma, ear infections, pneumonia, bronchitis and other lung
diseases. Non-smokers who are exposed to passive smoking in the home
have a 25 per cent increased risk of heart disease and lung cancer.
The
Newfoundland and Labrador Smokers’
Helpline, a toll-free number to connect smokers with counseling and
self-help materials, recommends that smokers make their home smoke free
as a first step towards quitting. Creating a smoke-free home decreases
triggers to smoke and, most importantly, minimizes the health risks to
other family members. Overall it is a great step to help individuals
quit and stay smoke-free, and to protect the health of the family.
The Smokers’ Helpline provides specific
tips and a resource booklet on making one’s home and vehicle smoke free.
As well, physicians can connect individuals with the Helpline service
through the Physicians’ CARE Fax Referral Program. Call the Smokers’
Helpline at 1-800-363-5864 for more information.
Mary Lynn Pender is the coordinator of the
Newfoundland and Labrador Lung Association’s Smokers’ Helpline.
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