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Secondhand smoke exposure and behavioral problems in Japanese schoolchildren
Toshiki Hata1, Haruhi Ishida1, Hiroko Inoue2
1Graduate School of Integrated Pharmaceutical and Nutritional Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan.
Frontiers in Public Health
|July 18, 2025
Summary
Secondhand smoke exposure is linked to increased behavioral problems in Japanese schoolchildren, especially older students. Reducing this exposure is crucial for preventing psychological issues and promoting better behavior.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Pediatrics
- Psychology
Background:
- Limited evidence exists on secondhand tobacco smoke (SHS) exposure and behavioral issues in schoolchildren.
- Objective measurement of SHS exposure is needed to clarify its impact on child behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between objectively measured SHS exposure and behavioral problems in Japanese schoolchildren.
- To differentiate effects based on grade level (early vs. upper grades).
Main Methods:
- 892 schoolchildren in Yamagata City, Japan, were included.
- SHS exposure assessed via urinary cotinine concentration (UC); high UC defined as ≥5.0 ng/mgCr.
- Behavioral problems evaluated using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ).
Main Results:
- High UC was found in 10.1% of early-grade and 7.4% of upper-grade students.
- In upper grades, high UC significantly increased the odds of behavioral problems (OR: 2.39).
- Upper-grade students with high UC showed worse hyperactivity, conduct, and prosocial behaviors; early-grade students showed worse emotional symptoms.
Conclusions:
- SHS exposure is associated with increased behavioral problems in Japanese schoolchildren, particularly in upper grades.
- Targeted interventions to reduce SHS exposure, especially in homes, are recommended.
- Preventing SHS exposure may mitigate behavioral and psychological difficulties in children.
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