Effects of second-hand and third-hand smoke on children

Second-hand smoke consists mainly of smoke released from the burning end of a cigarette, and also of smoke breathed out by the person smoking. Second-hand smoke is also called environmental tobacco smoke. Breathing in second-hand smoke can also be referred to as passive smoking or involuntary smoking.

Third-hand smoke refers to the chemicals and particles from second-hand smoke that settle onto and coat walls, furniture, carpet, clothes, toys, dust and other objects. Third-hand smoke is also found on the clothing, skin and hair of people who smoke.

Second-hand smoke causes early death and disease in both children and in adults who do not smoke. Children exposed to second-hand smoke are at increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome, middle ear disease, higher rates and worsening of asthma, lung and airways infections, respiratory symptoms (e.g. cough, phlegm, wheezing) and weaker lungs. Young children are more likely to be exposed to third-hand smoke as they spend more time indoors and in contact with contaminated surfaces and objects such as floors.

Young children also often put their hands and other objects into their mouth. This allows toxins from third-hand smoke to be inhaled, ingested and absorbed through skin.

The resources below provide further information on the effects of second-hand and third-hand smoke on children. They may help to support school communities (i.e. school staff, parents and students) in addressing and preventing exposure to second-hand and third-hand smoke.

• Second-hand smoke and third-hand smoke: effects on children – Raising Children Network’s webpage

• Cigarettes & tobacco – Quit resource, including factsheets on second- and third-hand smoke

• Passive smoking – Better Health Channel webpage

• Chapter 4.3 on third-hand smoke, from Tobacco in Australia – A comprehensive review of the major issues in smoking and health in Australia, compiled by the Cancer Council Victoria