environmental tobacco smoke

environmental tobacco smoke (ETS/passive smoke),

n the gaseous by-product of burning tobacco products, including but not limited to commercially manufactured cigarettes and cigars; contains toxic elements harmful to the health of adults and children exposed to it. Also called
secondhand smoke.

---

environmental tobacco smoke

The smoke from burning tobacco products to which a person is unintentionally exposed, in particular in public places–ie restaurants, hospitals, government buildings, aircraft. See Passive smoking, Second-hand smoke, Smoking.

---

Patient discussion about environmental tobacco smoke.

Q. can i get lung cancer from second hand smoking? what is the red line amount? how long do i need to expose to a smoking environment before i risk lung cancer ?

A. thanks dominicus.. hope our short explanation can answer your question, chocolat?

Q. Are throat nodulars caused by second hand smoke, allergy drip, and reflux. Also can chlorine and rust in water

A. Throat nodules, or also known as - vocal cord nodules, are usually caused by maximum contact between the two vocal cords. The cause of these formations are usually strenuous or abusive voice practices such as yelling and coughing. Persons who are often susceptible are those who use their voice constantly in a loud environment. Examples include teachers, cheerleaders, politicians, actors, musicians and singers. I am not sure I understand the question about chlorine and rust in water, I don't think these factors have a connection to vocal cord nodules. Other throat nodules can be cause by smoking (not as much in second hand smoke), alcohol or chewed tobbacco use.

Q. can i get lung cancer from second hand smoking? what is the red line amount? how long do i need to expose to a smoking environment before i risk lung cancer ?

A. Yes, second hand (or passive) smoking is indeed a risk factor for lung cancer. How much? It depends both on the environment of the passive smoking (e.g. to how many smokers one is exposed) and on genetic factors. Don't know about threshold, but it seems that the more you avoid it the better.