A new US study shows that third-hand smoke, known as tobacco residue clinging to surfaces, is harmful to your health.
Researchers from the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory led the study, which they say is the first to quantify the reactions of third-hand smoke with nitrous acid. (Washington, AFP)
When a cigarette burns, nicotine is released in the form of a vapor that collects and condenses on indoor surfaces such as walls, carpeting, drapes and furniture, where it can linger for months, said the study, which was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS).
"Our study shows that when this residual nicotine reacts with ambient nitrous acid it forms carcinogenic tobacco-specific nitrosamines, or TSNAs," said Hugo Destaillats, a corresponding author of the study.
"TSNAs are among the most broadly acting and potent carcinogens present in unburned tobacco and tobacco smoke," he said. - (Washington, AFP)
The study also suggests that using a fan while smoking, or smoking outside, still poses a risk as the nicotine residues will stick to the smoker's skin and clothing. It will then get carried along and spread to other places.
Young children are at greatest risk as the study suggests, "Dermal uptake of the nicotine through a child's skin is likely to occur when the smoker returns and if nitrous acid is in the air, which it usually is, then TSNAs will be formed," said Lara Gundel, a co-author of the study.
It's time to get serious about creating a healthy environment for ourselves and our children. To learn more about smoking cessation programs in the Charlotte area, visit www.supportworks.org or www.reach2010charlottenc.org.
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