Second-hand smoke (also known as passive smoke) is one of the biggest causes of lung cancer in people who have never smoked, according to an article published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine. If you’re a smoker, you’re not only putting your own health at risk, but also the health of your family, friends and even pets. Creating a smoke-free environment is essential for reducing harm and moving towards a healthier, smokefree Wales.
To help motivate you to quit smoking, here are 10 crucial facts about the dangers of second-hand smoke:
#1 Toxic Cocktail
Every cigarette contains over 4,000 chemicals, with at least 50 known cancer-causing agents. These carcinogens linger in second-hand smoke, endangering anyone who inhales it.
#2 Increased Cancer and Heart Disease Risks
Exposure to other people’s smoke increases a non-smoker’s risk of lung cancer by 20–30% and coronary heart disease by 25–35%. This was highlighted in a report by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
#3 Harm to Infants and Children
Young infants exposed to second-hand smoke face a 50% greater risk of lower respiratory tract infections such as flu, bronchitis and pneumonia. Exposure also more than doubles a child’s likelihood of developing invasive meningococcal disease. In Wales and beyond, children deserve the best start in life—smoke-free homes are a vital step towards achieving this.
#4 Invisible but Deadly
Did you know that 80% of cigarette smoke is invisible? It can linger in the air for up to four hours after a cigarette has been stubbed out, allowing toxic chemicals to spread throughout the home.
#5 Toxic Particles Spread Easily
Smoke particles are smaller than dust particles and travel effortlessly from room to room, carrying harmful toxins with them. This makes it nearly impossible to contain second-hand smoke in one area of your home.
#6 No Safe Way to Smoke Indoors
Opening windows, switching on extractor fans or using air purifiers won’t protect others from second-hand smoke. The only reliable way to safeguard those you care about is to smoke entirely outside the home and firmly close the door behind you.
#7 Heightened Risks for Children’s Health
Children face the greatest risks because their lungs and immune systems are still developing. Those exposed to second-hand smoke may suffer from more frequent coughs, colds, ear infections, chest infections and reduced lung function—problems that can follow them into adulthood.
#8 Smoke Drift Affects Neighbours
Indirect second-hand smoke, known as smoke drift, can easily reach neighbouring homes, especially in densely populated areas. This can adversely affect neighbours’ quality of life, causing eye irritation, breathing difficulties, nausea and headaches, undermining community wellbeing.
#9 Pets Are Vulnerable Too
Even your beloved pets aren’t safe. Animals living with smokers inhale harmful smoke and ingest toxic particles clinging to their fur, increasing their risk of cancer, respiratory problems, cell damage and weight gain. Dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, and even goldfish can suffer from the effects of second-hand smoke.
#10 The NHS Bears the Burden
Across the UK, passive smoking leads to around 9,500 hospital admissions every year, costing the NHS approximately £23.3 million. Reducing second-hand smoke helps ease pressure on our healthcare system, supporting a healthier future for everyone in Wales and beyond.
It’s Time to Quit Smoking and Protect Your Community
Every step towards a smoke-free environment matters. By quitting smoking, you’ll not only improve your own health but also protect your loved ones, neighbours, and pets. Help is available, including expert advice, support services and treatment options tailored to people in Wales. Together, we can work towards a healthier, smokefree Wales.
Click here to visit Help Me Quit Wales for free advice and support
