Smoking Facts

• Smoking causes major health problems.
  
  
• There are more than 4200 harmful gases and poisons in each cigarette.
  
  
• 1 in 4 children under 12 years of age are regularly exposed to cigarette smoke in the home.
  
  
• Exposure to cigarette smoke makes asthma worse.
  
  
• Children exposed to cigarette smoke have more frequent colds.
  
  
• Children exposed to cigarette smoke are more likely to develop ear infections, pneumonia, bronchitis, breathing problems, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
  
  

• Tobacco smoke is a very common asthma trigger.
  
  
• Exposure to tobacco smoke in the womb and in the first year of life increases the chance of getting asthma.
  
  
• Tobacco smoke can cause coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing and chest tightness.
  
  
• Exposure to tobacco smoke makes it difficult to control asthma.
  
  
• Children with asthma who live in a smoky home will have increased swelling in their airways, more asthma problems and may need more medicine to control their asthma.
  
  
• Smoking by parents and caregivers sends a message that smoking is okay.
  
  

Clearing the Air

• For your child’s sake, never allow smoking in your home. Tobacco smoke clings to clothes, hair, furniture, carpets, windows and walls.
  
  
• The best option for you and your child is to QUIT smoking.
  
  
• Talk to your doctor about ways to help you quit.
  
  
• Air filters may remove tobacco smoke particles from the air, but they do not remove harmful gases from tobacco smoke.
  
  
• Have friends and family members smoke outside.
  
  
• Keep your car smoke free.
  
  
• Stay away from places where smoking is allowed.
  
  
• It is important that your family and friends understand the importance of keeping your home smoke free.
  
  

Community Resources to Quit Smoking

• Manitoba Lung Association: (204) 774-5501
  
  
• Canadian Cancer Society [Manitoba Division]: (204) 774-7483
  
  
• Seven Oaks Wellness Institute: (204) 632-3900
  
  
• Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba: (204) 949-2000
  
  
• Your Physician
  
  
• Helpful Websites:
  
  
  • www.quitforlife.ca
    
    
  • www.lung.ca