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Even a Little Secondhand Smoke Is Dangerous

Most nonsmokers are very desirous of avoiding secondhand smoke. Continuing research in this area confirms the importance of having air unpolluted by cigarette smoke to breathe at work, at other public places such as restaurants, and at home. Recent research at the University of California shows that as little as 30 minutes of exposure to secondhand smoke reduces the function of coronary arteries (endothelial dysfunction). In fact, after 30 minutes of exposure to secondhand smoke, the endothelium (lining of the arteries) functions at the same level as that of a regular smoker.

This endothelial dysfunction of the artery may be a primary cause of atherosclerosis, a disease process that clogs and hardens the arteries leading to a heart attack. Dysfunctional cells of the endothelium contribute to constricting of the arteries, clogging of the arteries, and blood clot formation; in other words, coronary artery disease leading to a heart attack.

This helps explain why regular exposure to cigarette smoke causes a 30 percent increased risk of cardiac disease or death. The danger of passive smoking is as high as one-third the effect of active smoking even though the dose of cigarette smoke is much less than a smoker's.

Studies on secondhand smoke have found the following dangers:

  • A 30-minute exposure to secondhand smoke increases the likelihood of platelets clotting at a rate similar to regular smokers.

  • A 30-minute exposure to secondhand smoke causes dysfunction of the lining of the arteries, similar to the affect in regular smokers, hastening coronary artery disease.

  • Animal studies show that regular exposure to secondhand smoke from only one cigarette a day induces changes in arteries that leads to heart disease.

  • Secondhand smoke is estimated to be responsible for 37,000 deaths from heart disease and 53,000 deaths in total each year in the United States.

The authors of this University of California study conclude that, "Everyone should be protected from even short-term exposure to the toxins in secondhand smoke. Not only will people breathe easier, but they will have healthier hearts."


The danger of passive smoking is as high as
one-third the effect of active smoking.


References
1. Stanton Glantz, et al., Even a Little Secondhand Smoke is Dangerous, JAMA, July 25, 2001 -- Vol 286: 462-3
2. Ryo Otsuka, et al, Acute Effects of Passive Smoking on the Coronary Circulation in Healthy Young Adults, JAMA,
July 25, 2001 -- Vol 286:436-441
 

Note: All health information and guidelines are intended for healthy populations to encourage healthy lifestyles. They are not intended to take the place of advice by your doctor. If you have health problems or questions ask your doctor for specific guidance.

              (C) 2001 LifeLong Health All rights reserved. Permission given to copy for educational resources only.