‘Kids breathing 50 toxic cancerchemicals’

SureStart Edenballymore is asking people who cannot quit smoking entirely to at least quit the habit in their homes and cars.

The group points out that cigarette smoke contains over 4,000 toxic chemicals, 50 of which cause cancer.

Worryingly 90 per cent of these harmful chemicals stick to walls, clothes, furniture, toys, hair and skin for up to two weeks whilst children and babies exposed to smoke at home and in cars inhale the equivalent of 60-150 cigarettes a year.

Medical research has linked tobacco smoke to cot death, asthma, glue ear infection, meningitis and low birth rate, whilst children exposed to smoke on a daily basis are at increased risk of developing lung, mouth and throat cancer.

To counter the damaging effects of passive smoking on young children SureStart urge: “Make your home smoke free and protect your children from the health risks associated with inhaling tobacco smoke.

“Second hand smoke exposes everyone who breathes it to health risks such as cancer, heart disease and respiratory conditions. Second hand smoke is particularly harmful for children.

“People often think that opening windows and doors, not smoking in front of children or smoking under the extractor fan will remove the dangers of inhaling second hand smoke.

“This is not the case; harmful chemicals are left behind, lingering in the air and sticking to clothes, furniture and toys. These chemicals are harmful to children.

“Having a smoke free home and car is the best thing you can do to protect your family’s health. The minute you ban tobacco smoke in your home, the benefits begin immediately.”

People interested in supporting the campaign can pledge online on the SureStart Facebook site ‘www.surestartebm.com;’ or over the phone by contacting SureStart Edenballymore on: 71 371670.

Sign the pledge and we will give you ‘Smoke Free Home’ goodies. If relatives such as grandparents look after your children, encourage them to sign the smoke free pledge and make their home smoke free, too.