Researchers have waned that heavy concentrations of secondhand smoke, such as those found in smoke-filled bars and cars, can lead to airway restriction for bystanders within minutes of exposure. A study showed that after 20 minutes of exposure to highly concentrated secondhand smoke, participants experienced near immediate physiologic changes, including airway resistance and impedance.
"Bars and cars are places where high concentrations of fine particles usually occur because of smoking. Nonsmokers are then forced to inhale extreme amounts of particulates directly into their lungs,' said Panagiotis Behrakis, of the University of Athens, Greece. "The observed short-term effects of secondhand smoke tell us that even a short exposure is indeed harmful for normal airways."
Although exposure to secondhand smoke appears to be slightly less harmful than direct smoking, Behrakis believes secondhand smoking should be recognised as a global health issue.
"Bars and cars are places where high concentrations of fine particles usually occur because of smoking. Nonsmokers are then forced to inhale extreme amounts of particulates directly into their lungs,' said Panagiotis Behrakis, of the University of Athens, Greece. "The observed short-term effects of secondhand smoke tell us that even a short exposure is indeed harmful for normal airways."
Although exposure to secondhand smoke appears to be slightly less harmful than direct smoking, Behrakis believes secondhand smoking should be recognised as a global health issue.
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