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Children who live with smokers have been found to be at risk for a variety of health problems. A new study finds that if the children happen to need surgery, they may be at even greater risk. Harvard researchers report that children exposed to secondhand smoke experienced more breathing problems under general anesthesia. "Among those exposed to passive smoke, children are especially vulnerable."

This study looked at more than 400 children undergoing operations. Prior to surgery, patients' families were given general health surveys, which included information about smoke exposure. Approximately 40 percent of the children had been exposed to secondhand smoke, and they were much more likely to experience problems.

They were more likely to have airway obstructions, secrete too much mucus, and engage in breath holding. The biggest problems were seen in the wakeup period. The results suggest that doctors should screen families. They perhaps also suggest that teachers could warn parents of children they know are exposed to secondhand smoke to inform doctors so they can take steps to keep those children's airways open.

A brief summary of this study is here.

The full article is:
Jones, D.T., Bhattacharyya, N. (2006). "Passive smoke exposure as a risk factor for airway complications during outpatient pediatric procedures." Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, 135(1): 12-16.

Contributed by Michael Kalinowski

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