TEXTO:
Study: Thirdhand Smoke Could Cause Harm
A new study reveals that the so-called “thirdhand
smoke,” or the residue from cigarette smoke that lands
on surfaces after a smoker lights up, could be hazardous
to passers-by even well after the smoker has left the
[5] scene.
New research from the University of California
Riverside shows that the so-called “thirdhand smoke”
exposure harms organs in mice and increases symptoms
of hyperactivity — which suggests humans too might
[10] suffer similar negative consequences.
The researchers exposed lab mice to levels of
thirdhand smoke meant to imitate the levels humans
come into contact with in a smoking environment. They
found that the mice exhibited higher levels of lipids and
[15] fatty liver disease, as well as inflammation in their lungs.
The mice also had trouble healing wounds. Both of these
findings are found among people exposed to secondhand
smoke. Smokers also tend to take longer to heal their
wounds after a surgery.
[20] The researchers also noted increased levels of
hyperactivity in the mice, which they compared to similar
symptoms reported in children exposed to second and
thirdhand smoke. “It follows that children in environments
where smoking is, or has been allowed, are at significant
[25] risk for suffering from multiple short-term and longer health
problems, many of which may not manifest fully until
later in life,” the researchers conclude in the study,
published in the journal PLOS ONE.
SIFFERLING, Alexandra. Study: Thirdhand Smoke Could Cause Harm. Disponível em: <www.time.com/author/alexandra-sifferlin/page/ 91/>. Acesso em: 12 out. 2015.
Health problems affecting children who are exposed both to secondhand and thirdhand smoke
