Second hand smoke exposure in public venues and mental disorder: a representative nationwide study of China

Many studies have clearly linked exposure to Second Hand Smoke (SHS) to various somatic diseases, however, few studies have examined the relationship between SHS and mental disorders and those that have were only conducted with specific groups. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between SHS exposure and mental disorders among Chinese residents in both worksites and public places.

A cross-sectional multistage sampling design was used to interview subjects from 21 selected cities in China. Using a standardized questionnaire including demographic characteristics, SHS exposure, and mental health information was collected. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association between SHS exposure and mental disorders.

Sixteen-thousand-eight-hundred-sixty-six valid questionnaires were collected and utilized in this study. Of 11,206 non-smokers, SHS exposure prevalence in workplaces and public places were respectively 78.4 % (95 % C.I.:74.3-82.5 %) and 80.7 % (95 % C.I.:74.6-86.5 %). Multiple logistic regressions showed SHS exposures in these venues were positively related to mental disorder.

These findings further support the health hazards of SHS exposure. Findings underscore the importance of controlling SHS exposure, and can be used to inform future SHS control policies and reinforce the need for public education in China.