What are the Effects of Second Hand Smoke?

The effects of second hand smoke on adults and children.

Years ago smoking was an acceptable habit that was practiced in homes, public places and even in the workplace.  No one seemed to bat an eyelash when a friend or relative lit up a cigarette in smoked it in their presence.  However, all of that changed when scientists discovered that smoking was not only bad for smokers, it was bad for those around them. The inhalation of second hand smoke can lead to a host of medical problems, including cancer. The discovery of these facts has lead to a smoking stigma and an all out ban of smoking in many public places.

The Effects of Second Hand Smoke

Scientist have known for some time that smoking is not only dangerous for the smoker. Smoking is also dangerous to people around them. Studies have shown that second hand smoke can cause cancer. Thousands of people in America die each year from effects of second hand smoke exposure. People who work in establishments that allow smoking like bars restaurants and casinos are at a greater risk, because of the constant exposure to second hand smoke. The discovery of the dangers of second hand smoke has lead to smoking bans in public places in many cities nationwide. 

Children who are exposed to second hand smoke are more likely to develop asthma, bronchitis and respiratory problems.  Additionally, second hand smoke can cause cough, headache, eye irritation, nausea and dizziness to those who are exposed to it. Children who are exposed to second hand smoke may also have problems with the accumulation of fluid in the middle ear, which may lead to chronic ear infections. Scientist have also studied the effects of second hand smoke on infants and discovered a possible link between SIDs and infants with mothers who smoke.

Should Smoking be Banned

Most people believe that it is an individual persons right to do what they will with their own body and that if someone wants to smoke they should have the right to do so.  That being said, most people also believe that smoking should be banned from public places. It is of general public opinion that if someone wants to smoke they should be able to, but they should not subject the dangerous chemicals released while smoking on others.

Most people food service workers, casino employees and people who work in bars should not have to be subject to dangerous second hand smoke while they are out working hard for their living. Lawmakers in most states and cities have taken the dangers of second hand smoke into consideration and balanced the concerns of business owners worried about their profits, when making laws concerning smoking in public. In most cities smoking is banned from most public places. Exceptions were made for some bars and casinos, despite protest from many workers. As the years go on the evolution of these laws continue and the concern for public safety remains on many their advocates minds.