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Studies show that children whose parents smoke are 72 per cent times more likely
to get serious chest infections (Strachan Thorax 1997) and a child whose parent
smokes is approximately twice as likely to need to go to hospital because of
a serious lung infection during infancy (Pulmonary Journal, Jan 1999)
The
health dangers of smoking near children:
- Smoking near children is a cause of cot death. Cot death is twice as
likely amongst mothers who smoke (Scientific Committee On Tobacco and Health
- Smoking near children is a cause of serious respiratory illnesses such
as pneumonia (SCOTH 1998).
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- Studies show that children whose parents smoke are 72 per cent
times more likely to get serious chest infections (Strachan Thorax
1997) and a child whose parent smokes is approximately twice as
likely to need to go to hospital because of a serious lung infection
during infancy (Pulmonary Journal, Jan 1999)
- Smoking near children causes asthma attacks and increases the
risk of breathing problems such as wheezing, coughing, phlegm & breathlessness.
- Tobacco smoke contains poisonous gases and thousands of toxic
chemicals. These harmful elements get into the bodies of children
who live in smoky atmospheres.
- Children are much more sensitive to smoke than adults as their
bodies are young and still developing.
What should smoking parents do?
- The ideal thing would be to try and stop smoking.
- Help protect children by keeping their playing, sleeping and
eating areas smoke free.
- When out and about with children, find non-smoking areas.
What can I do if my friends and family smoke?
- Let them know before they visit you that you are keeping your
home smoke-free due to your children's health.
- Ask if they would help by smoking outside or before they visit
as children get ill through second-hand smoking.
What about car journeys?
- Second-hand smoke gets even more concentrated in a car.
- You can reduce your child's sickness and make a positive difference
to their health by avoiding smoking while they travel with you.
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