The human cost of tobacco
November 2004
Second hand smoke – the facts
Source: Tobacco FactFile: Smoke-free Public Places. British Medical Association Tobacco Control Resource Centre, July 2004. http://www.tobaccofactfile.org/
What is second hand smoke?
Tobacco smoke is a lethal cocktail of more than 4000 chemicals, more than 50 of which are known to cause cancer. Second hand smoke contains the same toxins.
Why is it a problem?
Second hand smoke causes illness, including fatal illnesses. It can cause lung cancer and heart disease and trigger asthma attacks. The BMA estimates that each year, passive smoking kills at least 1000 people in the UK.
How can we protect people?
There is no safe level of exposure to tobacco smoke. Ventilation is not a solution. Non-smoking areas offer only partial protection. Only smoke-free places protect health.
When?
Current UK policies have failed. Smoke free public places enjoy widespread public support. Government must act now to make all enclosed public places – including workplaces – smoke free by law.