Effects of passive smoking on respiratory health of children : a systematic literature review

Abstract

“Children’s right” is a matter of global significance. In recent years, much attention has been focused on all forms of child abuse and as a result greater success has be attained.Nonetheless, the effects of passive smoking on the health of children continues to be a major problem. This bachelor thesis discusses the effects of passive smoking on the respiratory health among children worldwide. A research question was set to investigate the possible effects of the menace through a systematic literature review on child’s respiratory health.Five articles selected for a review process answered the research question adequately. Four major effects namely; asthma, wheeze, reduced lung function and respiratory infections as well as two minor effects which entail common cold and nocturnal cough were found. The study concluded that passive smoking has serious effects on the respiratory health of children. The research recommended an in-depth study to substantiate the links between passive smoking and each of the effects stated.