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Experts Discuss the Dangers of Smoking
Q: I heard that some children may be more sensitive to second-hand smoke than others. Does this mean that only those children are at risk from second-hand smoke?Ask Our Expert About Second Hand Smoke About Our Expert
Robert W. Miller, M.D. is a
Practicing Medicine Since 1981 Education B.A. in Literature, 1974, Colgate University Residency in Pediatrics State University of New York Health Science Center, Syracuse (Chief Resident 1980-81) Fellowship in Pediatric Pulmonology Children's Hospital National Medical Center, Washington, DC Board Certification Board certified in Pediatrics and Pediatric Pulmonology Honors and Awards Faculty Teaching Award, State University of New York Health Science Center
Q: I heard that some children may be more sensitive to second-hand smoke than others. Does this mean that only those children are at risk from second-hand smoke?A: Your question probably stems from a recent study published in the American Journal of Respiratory Critical Care Medicine. The study showed that children with a particular gene who lived with a smoker were four times more likely to develop lower respiratory infections (like bronchitis and pneumonia) and miss school than children who did not live with smokers. Although this and other research shows that your child’s unique genetics may cause his or her body to respond differently to diseases or toxins, parents need to understand that all children are affected by second-hand smoke. Second-hand smoke also raises a child’s risk of upper respiratory illnesses like sinus or throat infections, and for developing asthma. You should minimize your child’s exposure to smoke no matter what his or her unique genetics. Q: How does exposure to second-hand smoke raise risk for lower respiratory infections?A: Smoke causes cells along the airways to produce more mucous, which can plug airways, allow germs to get a foothold, and trigger coughing and sneezing. Smoke also damages tiny hairs (called cilia) that line the airways, impairing their ability to sweep germs out of your body. Smoke irritates and inflames airways and impairs the immune system, which allows germs to more rapidly migrate from the nose, sinus, and throat to the chest and lungs. Q: I’d like to quit smoking to protect my child. What should I do?A: Talk to your doctor about your options. The journey from smoker to non-smoker will take time and effort, and you may experience some setbacks. To protect your child as you work on quitting, refrain from smoking in the house or car or any other area where your child breathes. However, the ultimate goal should be to quit smoking entirely. The odor of smoke on your clothes can be an irritant and trigger asthma in your child. Click here to learn more about quitting. Q: I recently quit smoking, but my husband still smokes around the kids. What should I do?A: Congratulate yourself on quitting! You’ve already made your home a safer environment for your children. That said, you are right to be concerned about your husband. Explain to your husband the benefits of quitting. Not only will it further protect your children’s health, it also will protect his and increase the likelihood he’ll live to see your children grow up. No matter how long he has smoked, he’ll gain immediate health benefits as soon as he quits. By quitting, he will also set a positive example for your children. Children mimic their parent’s behaviors. If you smoke but tell your children not to, you are sending them a mixed message. If your husband refuses to quit, declare your house and car (and everywhere else your children breathe) a smoke-free zone. Do not rely on smokeless ashtrays and other types of “smoke eaters.” They will not stop the basic problem of second-hand smoke exposure.
Want to quit smoking? A cessation counselor can help.
Call 610-402-CARE to make an appointment.
This page last updated 10/15/08 02:59 PM
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