The dangers of second hand smoke

Don't you have it when you're walking down the street and then you find yourself blocked by some smokers? You don't want to cross the street to avoid them so y ou hold your breath, excuse yourself and plough your way through. But just as you think you're done and take in some air, the smoke still some how manages to reach you. In your mind you think, it's just a little bit of smoke, it's ok. But now scientists are studying the effects of second hand smoke further. Researchers at Weill Cornell medical College and Cornell University in New York City did a study of 121 volunteers. They provided airway cells for the test. When airway cells are exposed to cigarette smoke, 11% of the genes respond and become active. In the experiment, the researchers found out that the cells reacted the same way when exposed to second hand cigarette smoke.

This suggests that smoking and breathing second hand smoke may be just as deadly. Researchers also believe that the activation of those 11% of genes may be the beginning of molecular lung cancer and lung disease. One of the lead researchs, Dr. Ronald Crystal, even said, "When you look at biology, there is no safe level of exposure to tobacco smoke." This is worrisome in many places where smokers tend to frequent and other nonsmokers must pass through. These people could have their health damaged with out even realizing it.

Many of us probably know someone that smokes in our life. If they are actually trying to quit, now would be a good time. Not only have they already endangered their own health but also the health of the people around them. That could include you as well. If a family member smokes, get them to stop as well because you live with them and your lungs could get damaged as a result of their habits. The researchers also urge people to fight for bans against smoking in public areas. This will allow us to walk around and not have to worry about crossing the street to avoid some second hand smoke.

Time Volume 176, Number 10. 2010