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How many deaths are caused by second hand cigarette smoke?
1Department of Public Health, Wellington School of Medicine, PO Box 7343, Wellington South, New Zealand. woodward@wnmeds.ac.nz
Tobacco Control
|December 12, 2001
Summary
Secondhand smoke (SHS) causes an estimated 347 deaths annually in New Zealand. Future estimates suggest approximately 325 potentially avoidable deaths each year, highlighting SHS as a significant public health concern.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure remains a significant public health issue globally.
- Quantifying the mortality burden attributable to SHS is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate deaths attributed to SHS in New Zealand.
- To differentiate between attributable and avoidable mortality burdens from SHS.
- To identify key uncertainties in SHS mortality estimations.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a case study approach focusing on New Zealand.
- Employed exposure and mortality data specific to the region.
Main Results:
- Approximately 347 deaths are currently attributed to past SHS exposure annually in New Zealand.
- An estimated 325 potentially avoidable deaths from current SHS exposure are projected annually.
- A plausible range of 174-490 avoidable deaths per year was identified, considering varying assumptions.
Conclusions:
- Attributable risk estimates for SHS provide policymakers with an understanding of the problem's scale.
- SHS ranks as a significant cause of mortality in New Zealand, falling between melanoma and road traffic accidents.
- These findings underscore the importance of public health strategies to reduce SHS exposure and associated mortality.