How does secondhand smoke affect your baby

Secondhand smoke is the smoke that comes from cigarettes or other tobacco products that are smoked by someone else. It can be just as harmful to your baby as smoking your own cigarettes.

Here are some of the ways that secondhand smoke can affect your baby:

* Increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). SIDS is the leading cause of death in babies under 1 year old. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, secondhand smoke increases the risk of SIDS by 2-3 times.

* Increased risk of respiratory problems. Secondhand smoke can irritate your baby's lungs and airways, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. It can also increase the risk of pneumonia, bronchitis, and asthma.

* Ear infections. Secondhand smoke can cause fluid to build up in your baby's middle ear, leading to ear infections.

* Eye infections. Secondhand smoke can irritate your baby's eyes, leading to conjunctivitis (pink eye).

* Developmental problems. Secondhand smoke can slow your baby's growth and development, both before and after birth. It can also affect your baby's cognitive development and behavior.

* Cancer. Secondhand smoke contains many of the same cancer-causing chemicals as firsthand smoke. These chemicals can damage your baby's cells and increase their risk of developing cancer later in life.

If you or someone close to you smokes, please do your best to protect your baby from secondhand smoke. Here are some tips:

* Don't smoke in your home or car. If you must smoke, do it outside and away from your baby.

* Ask people to smoke outside if you're around them and your baby.

* Avoid places where there is smoking, such as bars, restaurants, and casinos.

* Choose a smoke-free daycare for your baby.

Protecting your baby from secondhand smoke is one of the best things you can do to ensure their health and safety.