Good Morning Members,
Today we would like to elaborate on a common question when helping mothers and
their families quit smoking. This question is "How does second
hand smoke affect my family"?
Second hand smoke contains many toxins which can cause cancer. Some
are stronger then others in second-hand smoke then actually smoking a cigarette
itself. Second hand smoke may be linked to a number of health
effects in children under 18. Here are some of these effects, they include:
1) Croup and Pneumonia
2) Increased Fluid in the middle ear
3) Upper respiratory tract irritations
4) Episodes of asthma
Why are children susceptible to second hand smoke in our homes or in our
environment? Children breathe in more air and therefore absorb more
tobacco smoke toxins. Their immune system is less protective and
they are unable to remove themselves from the exposure.
When pregnant women smoke, the fetus is
deprived of oxygen and other nutrients. Some of the detrimental
effects of this include, miscarriage, stillbirth, deficits in intellectual
ability and behavioural problems, and reduced lung function in the
baby.
As for second hand smoke exposure, more research is needed before the full
effects can be determined. The best chance for a healthy pregnancy
and baby is when pregnant women are not exposed to any tobacco
smoke.
If you are looking for direction to quit smoking then you have come to the
right support group. Pregnets is a positive, open-minded supportive
community, which will help you understand the benefits of quitting
smoking. Not only does smoking affect you and your health, it
affects those around you. We understand that quitting smoking is not
easy! With the help of our moderators and members we want to help
you quit and stay quit!
