Exposing Children To Second And Thirdhand Tobacco Smoke: What’s The Problem?

Most people I meet know that tobacco smoke is unhealthy. 

Surveys show that both smokers and non-smokers generally agree on that point. But it always amazes me to learn how few smokers act on their beliefs. Fewer smokers have home no smoking policies, though most parents who smoke to say they smoke outside. Is that really good enough? Blood studies have shown children still show markers of smoke with nicotine levels even when parents who smoke don’t think they are exposed. I can usually tell who is a smoker just by walking in the clinic room and sniffing. Smokers lose that ability to smell. It bothers me when I see a child with asthma and the parent who smokes says that smoke doesn’t seem to bother the child. You just don’t always have symptoms right away. The smoke can make the lungs more sensitive so it is easier for other triggers to cause symptoms. 

Over time, exposure causes a child to be more prone to problems such as ear infections, colds or pneumonia. These exposed kids get sick more easily, can have more severe illness, and can take longer to get better. Plus we now know that children also have risks from thirdhand smoke. Thirdhand smoke is the particles that land on surfaces as smoke settles. These particles can be stirred back up in the air or get on a child’s skin. There are harmful chemicals that over time can cause health risks and there’s really no safe level of smoking or smoke exposure. Even if a parent is smoking outside, the child knows it. That makes them think that smoking is not so bad and it is more likely the child will smoke. It matters more what you do, not just what you say. There are enough bad role models in the movies! 

Parents have a choice. Tobacco smoke exposure is completely preventable. Most people who smoke have nicotine dependence and need help to quit. There are medicines that can help — including nicotine supplements you can get without prescription. Free help is available too! The National Cancer Institute has a toll free quit line to get support (1-877-44U-QUIT ) and QuitPal, a free smartphone app to help you quit. The American Lung Association Freedom from Smoking program has online, self-help and group materials and a free Lung HelpLine (1-800-LUNG-USA). I want kids to live in smoke free homes and stop growing up to be smokers. I believe it is part of my job to help parents to quit. It can take several tries but anyone can be successful. Make a quit date for your child (and yourself)!