Life
Sick by Association: The Dangers of Second-Hand Smoke
A first hand account of how second hand smoke can affect you…
Even today, I am still on a campaign to convince my parents to quit this habit, but I am grateful for the fact that I learned just how uncool smoking was in my very own house long before my friends could tell me otherwise. What can you do if you’re struggling with a nicotine addiction, but don’t want those around you to suffer?
Quit. Whether you have been smoking for two years or 20, it’s never a bad time to ditch your habit. Seek tobacco cessation counseling; try nicotine patches, gum or nicotine-free cigarettes. You won’t only improve your health, but the health of those around you.
Try your hardest to not smoke at home, work or confined spaces like the car. Keep your habit confined to areas where your smoke doesn’t affect others.
The only way to fully protect non-smokers from exposure to second-hand smoke is to prevent ALL smoking from that indoor space or building. Separation of smokers from non-smokers, cleaning the air, ventilation and filters still does not protect non-smokers completely from second-hand smoke.
By: Toya Sharee. You can follow her on Twitter @TheTrueTSharee.
