Featured Myth  

Someone you know shares a health tip with you? Or maybe you’ve heard health information that sounds far-fetched?

In this « Myth or reality? » section, you’ll find beliefs that aren’t always true. Though they can be amusing, they can also be harmful to your health.

To help you see clearly, here are some topics written by PROXIM pharmacists.

Answer:

Did you know that 1,700 non-smokers die each year in Canada because of second-hand smoke? Second-hand smoke is the smoke from the cigarette itself or the smoke exhaled by the smoker. Note that smokers release two-thirds of the smoke they inhale back into the air.

Second-hand smoke contains the same 4,800 to 7,300 chemical agents as cigarettes. About 60 of these are known to cause cancer.

Be aware that regular exposure to second-hand smoke is the second leading cause of lung cancer. It increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, aggravates respiratory diseases and heightens the risk of respiratory infections like colds, bronchitis, flu and pneumonia. Because they breathe more rapidly, which increases the amount of chemicals absorbed with each inhalation, children are more sensitive to exposure than adults, and are more likely to develop exposure-related health problems.

Be on the lookout for symptoms like eye, nose or throat irritation, headache or dizziness. They could be a sign that there are traces of second-hand smoke in the room.

In light of all this, remember that even if you are a passive smoker, cigarette can be just as dangerous for your health!


Reference:
Passeport santé Website
Smoke-free Family Website