A new study published in “Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes,” a journal of the American Heart Association, shows that children frequently exposed to secondhand smoke have higher risk of future blood vessel hardening and heart disease.

Of nearly 500 children evaluated who were exposed to tobacco smoke from ages 8 to 13, the ones who had the the most exposure also had a significantly thicker blood vessel wall and increased problems with blood vessel function after age 13.

These children also showed higher levels of apolipoprotein-B, a component of cholesterol that indicates increased heart disease risk. Lead author Dr. Katariina Kallio of the University of Turku in Finland said, “These findings suggest that children should not face exposure to tobacco smoke at all.

Even a little exposure … may be harmful for blood vessels. We need to provide children a smoke-free environment.” Dr. Kallio and University of Turku colleagues, we appreciate your work and findings that further highlight the harms of tobacco exposure for the innocent young.

We join in heartfelt agreement and pray that all heed the call to provide safe, smoke-free atmospheres for children everywhere.

http://www.physorg.com/news186770290.html