Exposure to Second-Hand Smoke in Childhood Alters Children's DNA, Poses Long-Term Health Risks
A recent study led by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) has uncovered alarming evidence that exposure to second-hand smoke during childhood can lead to significant and lasting changes in a child's DNA. This research, published in the journal Environment International, highlights the critical need to reduce children's exposure to tobacco smoke, particularly in domestic environments.
The Study's Findings
The study, which analyzed data from 2,695 children aged 7 to 10 years from eight European countries including Spain, France, Greece, Lithuania, Norway, the Netherlands, the UK, and Sweden, revealed that children exposed to second-hand smoke at home exhibit specific alterations in their epigenome. These changes are associated with an increased risk of various health issues later in life.
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