Cigarette smoke doesn’t just harm the person who lights up, it also poses serious risks to anyone nearby.
Known as secondhand smoke, it contains the same toxic chemicals, including nicotine, carbon monoxide, and cancer-causing agents, that affect smokers.
Even brief exposure can trigger harmful effects on the heart and lungs.
Children are especially vulnerable. Exposure to secondhand smoke increases their risk of asthma, respiratory infections, ear problems, and in severe cases, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Adults are also at risk, with repeated exposure linked to higher chances of heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer.
Health experts emphasize that there is no safe level of secondhand smoke. Smoke-free homes, workplaces, and public spaces are crucial to protecting non-smokers, especially children.
Families are encouraged to support loved ones in quitting smoking and to create environments free from smoke.
Awareness campaigns and smoke-free policies play a vital role in reducing the hidden harm caused by tobacco. Protecting yourself and those around you is a simple but powerful step toward better health.
