[The effect of tobacco smoking on the human immune system]

The influence of tobacco smoking in development of respiratory, cardiovascular diseases and impairment of foetal development is well documented. Recent studies have shown adverse effects of tobacco smoke on the immune system. Particular place of impact of tobacco smoke is BALT (bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue). Tobacco smoking increases the inflammatory processes and also has an immunosuppressive effect. It is very important in relation to more frequent youth and children diseases linked with the immune system. In school education programmes to prevent tobacco smoking carried out by the Institute of Mother and Child it is also very important to include this aspect.