Tobacco Use and Society Lesson 4, chapter 8

Tobacco’s Effects on Nonsmokers Your environment affects your personal health. Secondhand smoke: air that has been contaminated by tobacco smoke. There are two types of secondhand smoke: Mainstream smoke: the smoke that is inhaled and then exhaled by a smoker. Sidestream smoke: smoke that comes from the burning end of a cigarette, pipe, or cigar. Passive smokers: nonsmokers who breathe in secondhand smoke. *secondhand smoke is filled with nicotine, carbon monoxide, and other harmful ingredients. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has labeled secondhand smoke as a human carcinogen…meaning, it causes cancer.

Health Hazards Imagine standing in a smoke-filled room for one hour. Did you know that standing in that smoke filled room for one hour would be the same as smoking one cigarette? Nonsmoking adults who regularly breathe in secondhand smoke can get sick from it and risk getting the illnesses and diseases as regular smokers do. (Heart Disease, Lung Disease, Respiratory Problems) Secondhand smoke is especially dangerous for children. If exposed, they are more likely to problems like allergies, asthma, ear infections, heart problems. Women who use tobacco while pregnant put their unborn children at risk or serious danger. Babies could die, be born with low birth weight, and other health problems.

Rights of Nonsmokers Smoke-Free Environments Smoke-free business Public places like restaurants (no smoking inside, and sometimes outside too) Legal Restrictions In the late 1980’s, laws went into effect to fight secondhand smoke 1989 = smoking was outlawed on domestic flights Employers have legal right to ban smoking in their workplaces (most do) Laws control how tobacco companies package and sell cigarettes Packages must have clear warning labels

Benefits of Being Tobacco Free Staying healthy smokers get sick more often and more easily. They also stay sick longer Clear, healthy skin Fresh Breath Clean, fresh-smelling clothes and hair cigarette odors cling to clothing and hair…very hard to get rid of Better sports performance – healthier respiratory systems Saving money Keeping the environment healthy

You Can Quit List your reasons Set small goals Choose tobacco-free places to spend time Be physically active Keep trying