The City Health Office (CHO) spokesman, Nurse Robin Culpa, alerted the public of the health risks posed by second- and third-hand smoke during his appearance on dyTR’s Newsmakers ug Uban Pa on January 22, 2024. The show was hosted by Ardy Aranata-Batoy.
Culpa explained that second-hand smoke is the cigarette smoke that non-smokers inhale from smokers, while third-hand smoke is the tobacco smoke residue that lingers on surfaces, dust, or air long after the smokers have left.
He said that both types of smoke exposure can cause serious illnesses, such as pulmonary diseases and smoking-related cancers, to non-smokers.
He also warned that non-smokers can be exposed to third-hand smoke by smelling the cigarette odor on the clothes of smokers, even if they are not in the same room.
Culpa urged the public to avoid contact with smokers and their belongings, as well as to keep their environment smoke-free.
Furthermore, he debunked the myth that electronic cigarettes or vapes are safer alternatives to tobacco. He said that vapes may contain harmful substances that can irritate the upper respiratory tract and the lungs.
He cited the Department of Health’s report that 321 Filipinos died from smoking each day in 2022. He encouraged the public to quit smoking or to seek help from the CHO if they need assistance.