Up In Smoke: The Effects Of Smoking On Children

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By Mia Bolaris-Forget

We all know that smoking is bad for us, and we know that it’s bad for our unborn children. But, how bad is second hand smoke for children already part of our household and lives?

Well, according to research, VERY. So bad, that smokers may be damaging the health of or “killing” their children. In fact, studies show that when children are exposed to smoke I (during and after pregnancy) it tends to impair the functionality of their lungs. Yet, it remains a serious public health issue.

According to experts, the effects of smoking while pregnant can last up to the age of 12. Exposure to smoke after childbirth simply contributes to worsening lung function. And, it increased the child’s propensity to smoke, with most children (of smoking parents or families) picking up this deadly habit by their tween and teen years.

Furthermore, statistics show that children of smoking mothers (primarily those who smoked during pregnancy) were about 31 to 40 percent likelier to have poorly functioning lungs than offspring of non-smokers. And, early life exposure increased the risk of poor lung function by “only” 24 to 27 percent

Long Island Family Life & Parenting Articles > Up In Smoke: The Effects Of Smoking On Children