William Atkins
Monday, 05 January 2009 19:54
Science -
Health
Page 3 of 4
The researchers stated in their abstract that
“Strict rules prohibiting smoking in the home were more prevalent among nonsmokers.”
They concluded,
“This study demonstrates that beliefs about the health effects of thirdhand smoke are independently associated with home smoking bans. Emphasizing that thirdhand smoke harms the health of children may be an important element in encouraging home smoking bans.”
According to the GEBN article,
“Particulate matter from tobacco smoke has been proven toxic. According to the National Toxicology Program, these 250 poisonous gases, chemicals, and metals include hydrogen cyanide, carbon monoxide, butane, ammonia, toluene (found in paint thinners), arsenic, lead, chromium (used to make steel), cadmium (used to make batteries), and polonium-210 (highly radioactive carcinogen). Eleven of the compounds are classified as Group 1 carcinogens, the most dangerous.”
It has been shown scientifically that second-hand smoke is harmful to non-smokers, especially children.
Now, it is being shown that children are susceptible to the detrimental effects of third-hand smoke.
This is due to smoke settling on carpets, bedding, furniture, and other materials where children crawl, play, touch, and generally live and play around.
Third-hand smoke, although invisible, remains a contaminant long after the actual smoking process has stopped by smokers.
Page four concludes the story on third-hand smoke, along with second-hand smoke and first-hand smoke.
