767 Million Children Exposed to Second-Hand Smoke Globally as Study Warns of Serious Health Risks
More than 767 million children under 15 were exposed to second-hand smoke globally in 2023, according to a new study published in The Lancet Public Health, raising fresh concerns about the health risks children face from tobacco smoke.
The study found that about 2.71 billion people were exposed to second-hand smoke that year, including 1.49 billion women and 767 million children. Exposure was linked to an estimated 1.66 million deaths and 44.8 million disability-adjusted life years worldwide.
Children accounted for more than 12 per cent of the health burden associated with second-hand smoke. Lower respiratory infections were responsible for the largest share of this burden among children.
Health experts have also linked exposure in childhood to frequent and severe asthma attacks, respiratory infections, reduced lung function, ear infections and cognitive and behavioural difficulties. Exposure during pregnancy can also increase risks for babies, including low birth weight.
The study assessed second-hand smoke exposure across 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2023. It found that while the global prevalence of exposure has declined, the number of people exposed has remained largely unchanged because of population growth.
In sub-Saharan Africa, the number of people exposed has nearly doubled since 1990.
Researchers called for stronger enforcement of comprehensive smoke-free laws and broader tobacco-control measures. They also encouraged voluntary restrictions on smoking in homes and private vehicles, where children may face prolonged exposure.
For child safeguarding, reducing tobacco smoke around children remains an important step in creating healthier homes and environments where children can grow without preventable health risks.
