The effect of second-hand smoking

Abstract

Smoking of tobacco is practised worldwide by over one thousand million people. However, while smoking prevalence has declined in many developed countries, it remains high in others and is increasing among women and in developing countries. Between one-fifth and two-thirds of men in most populations smoke. Women's smoking rates vary more widely but rarely equal male rates. The purpose of this review is to discuss cigarette smoking and its effect on health in general with emphasis put on environmental tobacco smoke. In addition some of the carcinogenic effect and diseases caused by second hand smoke is discussed here. Finally actions or measures made to decrease the effect of second hand smoke. Most of the information is based on American source together with some sources from WHO.