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Case links death to environmental tobacco smoke

A Michigan State University physician reports the first nationally documented death from acute asthma caused by environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) in a bar employee. The case highlights the need for legal protections against ETS in workplaces, particularly for vulnerable employees with pre-existing conditions like asthma.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Industrial Medicine·DateFeb 8, 2008

On-screen smoking in movies linked to young adult smoking behavior

A new study by the University of California, San Francisco, found that exposure to on-screen smoking in movies is strongly correlated with beginning or becoming established smokers among young adults aged 18-25. The research team also identified positive expectations about smoking and exposure to friends and relatives who smoke as key ...

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateOct 2, 2007

Secondhand smoke increases teen test failure

A new study in the Journal of Adolescent Health suggests that secondhand smoke exposure at home increases the risk of test failure in teens. Exposure to secondhand smoke decreased the odds of passing standardized achievement tests by 30 percent in 16- and 18-year-olds.

SourceTemple University·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·DateSep 20, 2007

Smoking can harm the long-term effects of some oral surgery procedures

A recent study published in the Journal of Periodontology found that smokers experience greater residual gum recession after periodontal plastic surgery. The two-year study showed smokers had less desirable long-term outcomes compared to non-smokers. Quitting smoking before oral surgery can improve treatment success, according to experts.

SourceAmerican Academy of Periodontology·JournalJournal of Periodontology·DateSep 18, 2007

Secondhand smoke increases risk of dementia

Research suggests that elderly people exposed to secondhand smoke are at a higher risk of developing dementia. The study found that those with high lifetime exposure were approximately 30% more likely to develop dementia than those with no exposure. High exposure was defined as more than 30 years of exposure to secondhand smoke.

Doctors ill equipped to confront parent smoking

A recent survey found that nearly 60% of US children ages 3-11 are exposed to secondhand smoke daily, with urban children suffering the highest rates. Pediatricians lack formal training on effectively addressing secondhand smoke-related issues, despite knowing its hazardous health consequences.

SourceTemple University·JournalThe Journal of Pediatrics·DateMay 1, 2007

Smoking indicator of alcohol misuse

A study by Yale School of Medicine researchers found that cigarette smoking status can be used as a clinical indicator for alcohol misuse, which presents an opportunity for intervention. Non-daily smokers are five times more likely to have a problem with alcohol compared to people who have never smoked.

SourceYale University·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateApr 18, 2007

A short walk helps smokers quit

A short walk can significantly reduce cravings for cigarettes in smokers, helping them manage withdrawal symptoms and resist the urge to smoke. Moderate exercise can be as effective as a drug in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it a valuable tool for quitting smoking.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAddiction·DateMar 13, 2007

Long-term marijuana smoking leads to respiratory complaints

A new study by Yale University researchers found a link between long-term marijuana smoking and respiratory complications, including obstructive lung disease. The study's findings suggest that patients should be advised of the potential negative impact on overall lung health despite methodological limitations.

SourceYale University·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 12, 2007