A burning cigarette is a health risk to everyone in the same room. The scientific evidence of tobacco hazards is strongest for smokers. However, research reveals that regular exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke also threatens the health of nonsmokers. Secondhand smoke is estimated to cause from 22,700 to 69,600 premature deaths from heart disease each year in the US among nonsmokers (CDC).
Secondhand smoke or passive smoke is a known human carcinogen (cancer causing). It is classified as an environmental toxin equivalent to asbestos and other hazardous substances. It is a serious health risk for nonsmokers, especially children. (americanheart.org)
Research has linked secondhand smoke to cardiovascular disease and many other chronic disorders. The American Heart Association believes that the public should be protected from environmental tobacco. There is no evidence that ventilation can provide adequate protection from secondhand smoke. The best way to protect people is to eliminate the source.
6/23/2008
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