Passive smoke, also known as secondhand smoke or ambient smoke, refers to smoke that is inhaled by non-smokers in close proximity to those who smoke. Passive smoke consists of two main components: the smoke that is directly emitted from the tip of a burning cigarette, cigar or pipe, and the smoke that is exhaled by the smoker.  

   What is secondhand smoke?

  Secondhand smoke is a mixture of more than 7,000 different chemicals, at least 250 of which are harmful, and about 70 of which are known carcinogens, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These chemicals include nicotine, carbon monoxide, cyanides, heavy metals such as cadmium, and a number of organic compounds that include benzene and formaldehyde.

   How does secondhand smoke affect us?

  Secondhand smoke has a number of harmful health effects that affect both adults and children. Long-term exposure to secondhand smoke can lead to the development of a number of diseases, including:

   1. Heart Diseases: Secondhand smoke causes about 34,000 premature deaths from heart disease each year in the US. Tobacco smoke contributes to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, which can lead to heart attacks and ischemic heart disease.

   2. Cancer: Secondhand smoke is classified as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Secondhand smoke is directly linked to lung cancer, but also increases the risk of other types of cancer, such as cervical cancer and breast cancer.

   3. Respiratory Disorders: Tobacco smoke is a serious provoker of asthma and also contributes to other respiratory ailments such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

   4. Health problems in children: Children who are regularly exposed to secondhand smoke are more likely to suffer from a range of health problems, such as lower respiratory tract infections (such as pneumonia and bronchitis), asthma, lung function disorders, and sudden infant death syndrome.

  It should be emphasized that there is no "safe level" of secondhand smoke. Even short-term exposure to tobacco smoke can cause immediate negative cardiovascular effects, and long-term exposure to secondhand smoke leads to a significant increase in the risk of chronic diseases.

   How can you avoid secondhand smoke?

  The best way to avoid secondhand smoke is to maintain a smoke-free environment. Smokers should respect the space of others by smoking outside or in designated areas. Public places such as restaurants, bars and workplaces should have no-smoking laws that help protect non-smokers from exposure to secondhand smoke.

   Summary

  Secondhand smoke is a serious public health threat that affects millions of people around the world. Understanding what secondhand smoke is and how it affects our health is key to taking steps to protect ourselves and others from its harmful effects.