PASSIVE SMOKE Meaning and
Definition
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Passive smoke, also known as secondhand smoke or environmental tobacco smoke, refers to the mixture of smoke that is exhaled by smokers and the smoke that is emitted from burning tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. It is composed of both the mainstream smoke that is inhaled directly by the smoker and the sidestream smoke that comes off the burning end of the tobacco product.
Passive smoke contains numerous toxic chemicals, including nicotine, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, benzene, and various other carcinogens that can have detrimental effects on the health of individuals who are exposed to it. It is often considered more harmful than the smoke inhaled directly by smokers due to its increased concentration of toxins and the absence of a filter.
Exposure to passive smoke can occur in various settings, including homes, workplaces, public spaces, and vehicles, where smoking is allowed. Non-smokers who are exposed to passive smoke can inhale these toxic substances, leading to various health problems, including respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer, and increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) in infants.
Given the potential health risks associated with passive smoke, many countries and jurisdictions have implemented smoking bans in public spaces and indoor areas to protect non-smokers from exposure.
Etymology of PASSIVE SMOKE
The term "passive smoke" is derived from the combination of the words "passive" and "smoke".
1. Passive: The word "passive" comes from the Latin word "passivus", which means "capable of suffering, experiencing, or undergoing". In English, "passive" refers to situations where one is subjected to something without taking an active role or participating actively.
2. Smoke: The word "smoke" has Germanic origins and can be traced back to the Old English word "smoca". It refers to the visible vapor and gases emitted by burning or smoldering substances.
When these two terms are combined, "passive smoke" is used to describe the inhalation of the smoke produced by others who are actively smoking.
