Secondhand Smoke
Breathing other people's smoke is known as passive, involuntary or secondhand smoking (SHS). It can also be called ‘environmental tobacco smoke’.
Smokers and nonsmokers alike inhale SHS and this is an unavoidable consequence of being in a smoke-filled environment.
Exposure to SHS has immediate health effects. It can reduce lung function; exacerbate respiratory problems; trigger asthma attacks; reduce coronary blood flow; irritate eyes; and cause headaches, coughs, sort throats, dizziness and nausea. There is no safe level of exposure to tobacco smoke and there are long-term health effects, especially with continued exposure over time.
ASH Research Report: Secondhand Smoke (Purchase £3.00)
This Research Report examines the scientific knowledge and health effects of exposure to secondhand smoke.
ASH Research Report: Impact of Secondhand smoke on Children (Purchase £5.00)
Although children's exposure to secondhand smoke in the UK has fallen, around 4 million people still smoke in the presence of children. Educational campaigns are needed to raise awareness of the harmful effects of secondhand smoke on children.Latest Archived Items - access the rest of the archive here
International review of health and economic impact of the regulation of smoking in public places. Health Scotland (External Web Page)
A review of the evidence about the impact of smoking bans and restrictions. 1 March 2005
UK specific secondhand smoke research, opinion polls and surveys
A summary of secondhand smoke research, opinion polls and surveys which took place in the UK
ASH Research Report on passive smoking 2004
A review of the evidence that shows passive smoking is a major health hazard for non-smokers. From 2004
