Environmental Tobacco Smoke Pollution, also known as secondhand smoke or passive smoke, refers to the harmful combination of chemicals emitted from the burning of tobacco products and exhaled mainstream smoke that pollutes the surrounding air. It is a mix of smoke from the lit end of a cigarette, cigar, or pipe (sidestream smoke) and the smoke exhaled by the smoker (mainstream smoke). This type of pollution poses significant health risks for non-smokers and can have long-term detrimental effects on their well-being.
Environmental Tobacco Smoke Pollution contains numerous toxic compounds, including nicotine, tar, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, ammonia, benzene, and several carcinogens. When non-smokers are exposed to this pollution, they inhale these harmful substances, which can then enter their bloodstream and affect various organs and systems, increasing the risk of heart disease, lung cancer, respiratory problems, and other health conditions. Infants and children are particularly vulnerable to the detrimental effects of these toxins, as their bodies are still developing.
Exposure to Environmental Tobacco Smoke Pollution occurs in various settings, such as homes, vehicles, workplaces, and public spaces where smoking is permitted. Efforts to reduce or eliminate this pollution include the implementation of smoke-free policies, creating designated smoking areas away from non-smokers, and raising awareness about the dangers of secondhand smoke. These measures aim to protect non-smokers from the harmful effects of Environmental Tobacco Smoke Pollution and create healthier environments for all individuals.
