Tobacco use not only affects the health and well-being of the smoker, but it affects the health and well-being of those around that person.
Nonsmokers exposed to secondhand smoke at home or work, have a 25-30% increased risk of developing heart disease and 20-30% increased risk of developing lung cancer. About 49,400 lung cancer and heart disease deaths can be attributed to secondhand smoke.
It also increases the risk for:
- Breathing problems in nonsmokers, including coughing, mucus, chest discomfort and reduced lung function
- Lung infections in children, including pneumonia and bronchitis
- The number and severity of asthma attacks
- Middle ear infections
- Low birth weight babies in pregnant women exposed to second hand smoke
To protect protect children and adults, many states and communities are passing smoke-free policies to improve air quality and protect individuals from exposure to secondhand smoke.