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There are few people who don’t by now know the dangers of smoking, but many smokers think that it’s only themselves that their habit is harming. Now, the chairman of the Royal College of General Practitioners has called on parents to take more responsibility for the effects that can result from children being exposed to their parents’ secondhand smoke – and labelled smoking in front of children ‘child abuse’.

The effects

More children are killed by the effects of smoking than by traffic accidents, according to American research. Tragic results can also occur when mothers smoke while pregnant, as this activity is blamed for many cot deaths. If that’s not a good enough reason for parents to stop smoking, then what is?

More detail

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It stands to reason that simply telling parents to quit smoking has less effect than demonstrating to them the scale of the damage that smoking near children can have. Word from the Royal College of General Practitioners is that doctors should explain to parents that smoking around their children can lead to ‘bronchia illness, asthma and a lifetime of ill health and they might start to see things differently.’

How to protect your children

If you’re struggling to quit smoking, at least limit your child’s exposure to your secondhand smoke. Create a smoke-free home by never smoking inside your house, and never smoke in your car. Protect yourself too: remember that smokers have been found to live unhealthy lifestyles in general, and are often deficient in Vitamins C, D, and E, as well as calcium. Blend smoothies for breakfast that contain yoghurt and the fruits that give you these vitamins, and consider taking supplements. The real solution to the problem remains the same though – it’s best to stop smoking altogether, for you and your child.

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