Third-hand Smoke: Toxic for Children

It has been proven scientifically that second-hand smoke is harmful, now third-hand smoke is being proven toxic (especially to children).

Third-hand smoke refers to the harmful chemicals from cigarette smoke that seep into and settle on fabrics, furniture, and other various surfaces.  The problem for those who smoke is that the toxic contaminants are recycled with the airflow and traffic of touch in confined spaces.  Children that crawl and play on and in these surfaces and areas are highly susceptible.

For example, one who smokes outside and then comes in to play with their child is unknowingly spreading harmful chemicals to their child from the fabric of the clothes they just smoked in.  The general rule of thumb is that if you can smell any smoke residue, then you are in fact smelling toxins and are in a toxic environment. 

The concept and danger of third-hand smoke appeared in a recent article posted by the Journal of American Academy of Pediatrics.   The article, Beliefs About the Health Effects of “Thirdhand” Smoke and Home Smoking Bans, proclaims that “there is no safe level of exposure to tobacco smoke.”  Along with their research is a strong consideration to have smoking banned from homes.  The danger of repeatedly introducing dangerous toxins to young children is impossible to avoid if smoking is happening around the child.  The original article set out to bring attention to the “residual tobacco smoke contamination that remains after the cigarette is extinguished.”  See the original article here.

If smoking adults can understand the effect of residual harm from their habits, then perhaps they will be more cautious around children.