
Israeli researchers have found that nearly half of the country’s families suffer from secondhand smoke entering from neighboring homes and balconies.
Secondhand smoke refers to nonsmokers involuntarily inhaling smoke released into the air by active smokers. This smoke contains a mixture of thousands of chemicals, many of which are toxic and carcinogenic. Non-smokers who are consistently exposed to secondhand smoke can experience reduced lung function, increased respiratory symptoms and a higher risk of heart disease and lung cancer. It also poses special risks to children and pregnant women.