Secondhand, Thirdhand Smoke
What is secondhand smoke?
Secondhand smoke is the smoke that comes off a cigarette combined with the smoke exhaled by the smoker. Those exposed to secondhand smoke, including people and pets, become endangered from the chemicals and deadly carcinogens (cancer causing chemicals).More about secondhand smoke
Secondhand smoke lingers for several hours. Even short periods of breathing secondhand smoke can cause harm. Secondhand smoke exposure happens indoors and outdoors.Adults
exposed to secondhand smoke are at higher risk for: Lung cancer, heart disease, early death, and breathing problems such as asthma and emphysema/COPD.Babies and children
exposed to secondhand smoke are at higher risk for: Low birth weight, Lung infections, pneumonia, asthma attacks, bronchitis, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), ear infections.Pets
are affected by secondhand smoke too. Pets have an increased risk of: Respiratory infections, lung inflammation, asthma, nasal and lung cancers, and possible poisoning by eating tobacco and nicotine products.Keep all tobacco and nicotine products away from children and pets.
What is thirdhand smoke?
Thirdhand smoke is the lingering nicotine and chemicals that seeps on to clothing and into surfaces like walls, carpets, curtains, bedding, and vehicles.Here's what we know:
There is no safe level of exposure to tobacco smoke. Thirdhand smoke contains chemicals and toxins – babies, children, nonsmokers, and pets can be at risk of health problems if they inhale, ingest or touch thirdhand smoke.Kids and pets are at high risk for thirdhand smoke. Kids and pets tend to spend the most time in our homes; close to carpets, drapes, and materials that have absorbed thirdhand smoke.
The best way to protect nonsmokers from secondhand and thirdhand smoke is to create smoke–free environments including homes, vehicles, and public places.
Having a tough time quitting?
Worried about weight gain?
Quitting smoking means a healthier you. Maintain your weight while quitting.
Slip-ups are normal
The most important thing to do? Learn from them and keep trying.
Chronic conditions, quitting helps
If you have heart disease, high blood pressure, emphysema, or other ailments, learn more about how quitting smoking can make a difference.
