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Health hazards of passive smoking
M P Eriksen1, C A LeMaistre, G R Newell
1Department of Cancer Prevention and Control, University of Texas System Cancer Center, M. D. Anderson Hospital and Tumor Institute, Houston 77030.
Annual Review of Public Health
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure significantly increases lung cancer risk in nonsmokers, with an estimated 5000 annual deaths. Prevention strategies include reducing smoking and restricting smoke exposure in public areas.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
Background:
- Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) comprises over 3800 compounds, including numerous carcinogens, primarily from sidestream smoke.
- Nonsmokers exposed to ETS face health risks comparable to light smokers.
- Children exposed to parental smoking experience increased respiratory infections and reduced lung function growth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the health risks associated with environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure in nonsmokers.
- To evaluate the relationship between ETS and lung cancer risk.
- To identify preventive measures against ETS-related health consequences.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing studies on ETS composition and health effects.
- Analysis of epidemiological data on lung cancer risk in relation to ETS exposure.
- Evaluation of reported acute and chronic health impacts on non-smokers.
Main Results:
- ETS exposure is linked to increased risk of respiratory infections in children and exacerbation of existing conditions in adults.
- A consistent excess risk of lung cancer (10-300%) is observed in nonsmokers exposed to ETS, with a summary relative risk of 1.3.
- Acute effects include headaches, nausea, and irritation; evidence for other cancers is insufficient.
Conclusions:
- ETS poses significant health risks, including a substantial increase in lung cancer mortality for nonsmokers.
- Preventive actions, such as smoking cessation and restricting smoking in public spaces, are crucial.
- Reducing direct smoking and limiting exposure are key to preventing ETS-related deaths.