Healthy Living: Second Hand Smoke

In this Healthy Living, we take a look at what medical professionals say a smoking ban could to for your health.

Now that tougher smoking rules have been passed by Macon council, many smokers and non smokers ponder how much secondhand smoke does a nonsmoker get anyway?

Oncologist Dr. Ursula Reusch of Georgia Cancer Specialists says second hand smoke, or smoke inhaled involuntarily plays a part in more health problems than you might realize.

My specialty is oncology and second hand, of course is important in consideration for lung cancer. We know from studies that there are enough carcinogens in there that just in the US. That 3400 nonsmokers get lung cancer because of second hand smoke.

Second-hand smoke is the smoke that fills restaurants, offices or other enclosed spaces when people burn tobacco products such as cigarettes, or pipes. Everyone is exposed to the harmful effects of hundreds of chemicals known to be toxic or carcinogenic,

We don't know how much it really takes to be exposed. The surgeon general clearly states in 20006 statement that there is no safe limit. So, especially in public places, including work places, especially where kids are involved, there should be no smoking.

The American Lung Association reports that Separate or ventilated smoking areas do not protect non-smokers from second-hand smoke. Only 100% smoke-free environments provide effective protection.

If you can smell the smoke, or it is blowing in your face, it is a risk exposure, or should be banned. Or smokers should be conscientious of that and make sure they don't light up when other smokers are around.