Breathing in the smoke from other peoples cigarettes is called second-hand smoke/passive smoking. It consists of smoke from the burning part of the cigarette and is known as side-stream smoke. The smoke inhaled and exhaled by the smoker is called mainstream smoke. Research has shown that second-hand smoke is capable of causing cancer in humans.

The effects of second-hand smoke/passive smoking on adults include:

Irritation to eyes, nose and throat
Headache, dizziness and sickness
Aggravation of asthma and other allergies
Increased risk of coronary heart disease
A 10-30% increased risk of lung cancer for non-smokers who are exposed to passive smoking over long periods of time.

The effects of second-hand smoke/ passive smoking on babies and young children include:

Increased acute respiratory illness in early childhood
Chronic cough, phlegm and wheeze
Chronic middle ear infections
Reduced levels and growth of lung function
Increased prevalence of lung cancer
Increased likelihood of low-birth weight and decreased attained height

Approximately half the children in England live in houses with at least one smoker, and unlike adults, young children have no choice about being exposed to tobacco smoke.

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