Side-stream smoke

Side-stream smoke (SSS) is the smoke that emanates directly from the burning end of a cigarette, cigar, or pipe, as opposed to the smoke that is exhaled by the smoker, known as mainstream smoke. Side-stream smoke is a major component of second-hand smoke (SHS), which also includes exhaled mainstream smoke. The exposure to side-stream smoke is a significant public health concern due to its adverse effects on health, contributing to a range of diseases and health conditions.

Composition

Side-stream smoke contains over 4,000 chemical compounds, many of which are toxic and around 70 are known carcinogens. These include, but are not limited to, nicotine, tar, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, cyanide, and lead. The composition of side-stream smoke can vary depending on the type of tobacco, additives, and the design of the tobacco product. It is important to note that the concentration of many harmful substances is higher in side-stream smoke than in mainstream smoke.

Health Effects

Exposure to side-stream smoke is associated with numerous health risks in non-smokers, including heart disease, respiratory diseases, and lung cancer. Children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of side-stream smoke, with exposure increasing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Pregnant women exposed to side-stream smoke are at a higher risk of having babies with low birth weight.

Regulation and Public Health Initiatives

Due to the health risks associated with exposure to side-stream smoke, many countries have implemented laws and policies to reduce public exposure to second-hand smoke. These include smoking bans in public places, workplaces, and, in some cases, multi-unit housing. Public health campaigns also aim to raise awareness about the risks of second-hand smoke and encourage smoke-free environments.

See Also

• Tobacco smoking
• Health effects of tobacco
• Smoking cessation
• Passive smoking

Side-stream smoke Resources
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