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Dr Said Qabbaah
Medical Writer & Public Health Expert
"Despite increased awareness of the dangers of smoking, many people remain exposed to secondhand smoke in many places, includ- ing homes, workplaces and public areas.
Its harmful effects extend far beyond ir- ritation from the smell of smoke, as it is known to contain over 7,000 chemicals, with some linked to cancer.
This month, let’s explore the hidden risks of secondhand smoke, highlighting its impact on various aspects of health and the dangers it poses to non-smokers.
Global facts
Over 1 billion people worldwide use tobacco products.
Tobacco use causes over 8 million deaths each year.
This includes 1 million non-smokers who" "die from secondhand smoke exposure.
Jordan-specific insights
40 per cent of adults (around 3 million people) are smokers.
Jordan has one of the highest smoking rates in the world.
Tobacco-related economic losses amount to more than 1 billion Jor- danian Dinars a year.
Theme for world no tobacco day 2025:
Unmasking the Appeal
Objective: To expose the tactics of the tobacco and nicotine industries.
Focus: Revealing how
these industries: Deceive the public. Make harmful products look appealing."
"What Is secondhand smoke?
Secondhand smoke is smoke exhaled by a smoker (mainstream smoke) and the smoke that comes from the burning end of a cigarette or any other tobacco product (sidestream smoke).
Sidestream smoke is particularly harmful be- cause it contains higher concentrations of toxins than mainstream smoke. Also, it consists of small- er particles that can more easily penetrate the lungs and enter the bloodstream.
Even short-term exposure can have immediate harmful effects, making it a significant concern for public health.
Targeted industry tactics
Another major concern is the growing popularity of vapes or e-cigarettes among young people, with around 9 per cent of the population in Jordan using them.
These products are of- ten promoted as safer al ternatives to smoking, but in reality, many still contain nicotine and other harmful substances that can lead to addiction and long-term health issues.
Their sweet flavours and sleek packaging make them especially appealing to youth. That’s why this year’s World No Tobacco Day is also focusing on the urgent need to protect young people from these targeted industry tactics."
"Health risks
The risks of secondhand smoke are many and can be categorised based on the body systems they directly impact.
Respiratory disease:
Secondhand smoke is a major contributor to respiratory illnesses in both adults and children.
When non-smokers inhale it, they breathe in irritants that can cause or worsen certain respiratory conditions, such as:
Asthma.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a long-term lung disease that includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Pneumonia.
Cardiovascular disease: Evidence shows
that nonsmokers exposed to secondhand smoke are 25 per cent to 30 per cent more likely to develop cardiovascular disease compared to those not exposed.
Additionally, people with pre existing health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, face even greater risks when exposed to secondhand smoke, which can worsen their condition and lead to possible health complications The toxins in secondhand smoke can lead to Damage to the lining of blood vessels, leading to hardening of the arteries. Increased blood pressure and heart ate, putting extra strain on the heart. Higher risk of blood clots, increasing the likeli hood of heart attacks and strokes.
Cancer: One of the" "most serious risks of secondhand smoke is its direct link to cancer. Cancer causing chemi- cals found in secondhand smoke can cause the cells to divide abnormally, leading to uncontrolled growth and tumour formation.
There is no safe level of exposure, however, long term exposure significantly increases the chances of developing smoking-related cancers. The most common associated type of cancer is lung cancer, as well as cancer of the throat, voice box (larynx), bladder, breast and nasal sinuses,
among others.
Pregnant women:
Pregnant women who are exposed to secondhand smoke face serious health risks, both for themselves and their unborn babies, by causing: Low birth weight. Premature birth. Sudden Infant Death Syn-" "drome, which is the unexpected and unexplained death of a healthy baby, typically under one year old, usually occurring during sleep.
Effects on children:
Children are especially vulnerable to the dangers of secondhand smoke due to their developing lungs and immune systems, by increasing the risk of Frequent respiratory infections, such as colds, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Middle ear infections, that can potentially lead to hearing problems. Slower lung development that can result in reduced lung function and long term respiratory issues.
Protecting yourself and others
Enforcing a smoke-free home and car policy: One of the best ways to protect your family is to establish a strict no-" "smoking rule inside your home and car.
Opening windows or using fans does NOT eliminate exposure to secondhand smoke.
Offering support: Encouraging smokers to quit benefits both their health and the health of those around them.
This can take place through a number of ways, such as smoking cessation programmes, nicotine replacement therapy, and counselling, to help them break the habit.
Advocating for better health: Help to raise
awareness about the hidden risks of secondhand smoke by sharing valuable information to promote a healthier, smoke free culture." "Secondhand smoke affects more than just your comfort — it also harms your health, as it does for millions worldwide. While smoking bans and public health initiatives have made progress in reducing exposure, much more work is needed to eliminate this preventable risk.
By promoting smoke free environments, supporting smoking cessation and raising awareness, we can better protect ourselves and future generations from the harmful effects of smoking and the often overlooked dangers of secondhand smoke.
Reprinted with permission from Family Flavours magazine"