Relationship between exposure to tobacco smoke at home and the prevalence of respiratory diseases in children in Latin America

Abstract

Exposure to tobacco smoke is associated with various respiratory pathologies, especially in children; this is because their respiratory tract does not have sufficient development in defense mechanisms, which prevents them from defending themselves against toxic agents such as tobacco smoke. In Panama the real magnitude of the problem is unknown.

A primary and secondary analysis of existing information and data in Latin America is shown in relation to smoke exposure in homes and the prevalence of respiratory diseases. The sample includes studies from 2010 to date carried out in Latin America, which were obtained from scientific journals such as Scielo and Redalyc, ScienceDirect.

The magnitude of exposure to tobacco smoke in children is high; in countries like ours, the real figure is unknown due to the lack of studies on the matter. Measures that are necessary should be used throughout the region to ensure that children are not exposed. Health professionals should seek, identify and provide counseling aimed at parents with smoking habits.

Tobacco consumption in children represents a significant public health problem in various parts of the world. The harmful effects of tobacco smoke, active and passive, affect humans throughout life, from the intrauterine period.