Smoking

Another important aspect of smoking is the effect it has on children and young people. Those that live in a household where there are other smokers are up to four times more likely to become regular smokers themselves, sometimes at only 10 or 11 years old.

Across England, millions of children are exposed on a regular basis to second-hand smoke from cigarettes smoked in their home by parents or other family members and visitors. More than 800 children visit their doctor every day due to the serious effects of second-hand smoke exposure.

Second-hand smoke is dangerous for anyone exposed to it, but children are especially vulnerable as they breathe more rapidly, have less developed lungs and airways and have developing immune systems due to their age. This can increase the risk of lower respiratory infections, such as bronchitis and pneumonia, as well as the possible worsening of asthma, meningitis and middle ear infections and decreased lung function. There are also links between second-hand smoke and sudden infant death syndrome.

All parents want to give their children the best start in life and, if you are a smoker or allow others to smoke in your home, the best thing you can do is to only smoke outside the house. On 1 October 2015, new regulations became law. These regulations make it an offence to allow smoking in a private vehicle if a young person under the age of 18 is present. This can be enforced by the police and anyone found guilty will receive a fixed penalty notice for £50.

Last updated: 05/03/2024 11:22:30