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Second Hand Smoke
October 17, 2009 |
It can be deadly, not just for those who light up but for those who have never even
touched a cigarette.
Researchers are learning more about second hand smoke.
“Even if you live in a household with a smoker and they’re smoking indoors or they’re
smoking in confined places like the car with you, that second hand smoke is just
as lethal as
it is for the person who is smoking,” explains Dr. Sunil Pammi, a pulmonologist
and critical care specialist with Lee Memorial Health System.
The American Lung Association now reports that more than 3,500 people die each year
from lung cancer. Not because they smoked, but because they lived with someone or
spent time around someone who does.
“The symptoms would be equivalent to anybody else who smokes. Coughing, shortness
of breath, even at rest or on exertion, chest pain,” explains Dr. Pammi.
Children especially are feeling the damage. Those exposed to secondhand smoke are
more likely to suffer from lung diseases and have a higher rate of ear infections.
“One thing I want to be clear on: whether you are a smoker or a secondhand smoker,
removal from that exposure is ALWAYS important. It’s never, ever too late. Whatever
damage is done, yes it’s done, but if you continue to expose yourself to those things,
you are going to continue to worsen your lung function,” warns Dr. Pammi.
Lee Memorial Health System is also doing its part to raise awareness about the dangers
of tobacco use. On November 19th, all of the hospitals, physician offices, and business
locations will go completely tobacco free.
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