AboutMichael Dean Expertise Can answer
General information on tobacco addiction, and resources for quitting.
Information on current cancer research and the health effects of tobacco.
The risk of smoking for lung cancer and other cancers, as well as SIDS, heart disease, and vision loss.
The best place to start is 1-800-QUIT-NOW
Cannot answer
Specific medical questions
Experience Cancer Researcher for over 20 years
Author of the book "Empty Cribs-The impact of smoking on child health" www.artsciencepub.com.
Author of over 200 scientific articles on cancer, genetics and human disease.
Multiple interviews in print, TV and radio media.
Organizations American Association for Cancer Research
American Association of Human Genetics
Publications Scientific journals (Science, Nature, NE Journal Medicine, etc.)
Scientific American, Discovery Medicine, Nature Reviews in Cancer
Education/Credentials PhD. in Biochemistry from Boston University School of Medicine
Awards and Honors Young Investigator award-American Association of Cancer Research
Expert: Michael Dean Date: 5/1/2008 Subject: Dangers of second-hand smoke
Question Hello!
Just recently, I moved in with my aunt and uncle to be closer to where I work. My uncle is a devoted smoker. Cigarettes and cigars. I've been trying to avoid being inside while he's smoking but I can't do that for three hours a night every night. When I tried to open the windows, my aunt had a fit. She told me to just turn on the air conditioning and that would take care of any second-hand smoke I alleged I was breathing. If I could still smell it, I was to use a little Lysol and that would finish off any of the harmful effects of the tobacco. I told her that was hogwash, that I'd never heard of anything of the sort. She's adamant she's correct and I'm melodramatic. Could you please help me set her straight or me if I'm wrong about this? I'd really like to know. Thank you in advance for your time.
Libbi
Answer Dear Libby,
The Surgeon general's studies have shown that second hand smoke is dangerous. There studies also show that no ventilation will eliminate it and Lysol will do nothing but hide the smell.
The problem is not germs in the smoke, but the hundreds of cancer causing chemicals.
Here are the major conclusions of the 2006 report:
1. Secondhand smoke causes premature death and
disease in children and in adults who do not
smoke.
2. Children exposed to secondhand smoke are at an
increased risk for sudden infant death syndrome
(SIDS), acute respiratory infections, ear problems,
and more severe asthma. Smoking by parents
causes respiratory symptoms and slows lung
growth in their children.
3. Exposure of adults to secondhand smoke has
immediate adverse effects on the cardiovascular
system and causes coronary heart disease and
lung cancer.
4. The scientific evidence indicates that there is no
risk-free level of exposure to secondhand smoke.
5. Many millions of Americans, both children and
adults, are still exposed to secondhand smoke in
their homes and workplaces despite substantial
progress in tobacco control.
6. Eliminating smoking in indoor spaces fully protects
nonsmokers from exposure to secondhand
smoke. Separating smokers from nonsmokers,
cleaning the air, and ventilating buildings cannot
eliminate exposures of nonsmokers to secondhand
smoke.
I know this is hard, because you are in their house, but hopefully they will put your health first. Of course most important is health of your uncle and aunt.
I'd suggest you read (and give to you uncle) "The EasyWay to Quit Smoking" by Allen Carr. He explains how smoking has no positive benefit in your life and the many advantages of quitting. The book has been a best seller in Europe for many years, and he might find it useful. You should also call 1-800-QUIT-Now and find out about resources in your state. Some states provide free therapy and telephone quitlines, and these are useful.
There are a number of new drug therapies that are highly effective. He could talk to his doctor about prescribing both Chantix and Zyban. Chantix is a new drug that blocks nicotine's action. Zyban helps in reducing anxiety and withdrawal symptoms. Pfizer provides an online counseling program along with Zyban.
Good luck,
Michael Dean, Ph.D.
Author "Empty Cribs-The Impact of Smoking on Child Health"
http//www.artsciencepub.com
