The surprising fact is that side-stream smoke has higher concentrations of noxious compounds than the main-stream smoke inhaled by the smoker. Some studies show there is twice as much tar and nicotine in side-stream smoke compared to main-stream smoke, as well as three times as much of a compound called 3-4 Benzopyrine, which is suspected to be a cancer causing agent. There is also 10 times as much carbon monoxide that robs the blood of oxygen and 50 times as much ammonia in second-hand smoke.

In addition, there is more cadmium in side-stream smoke than in main-stream. Cadmium is now under investigation as one of the agents in cigarette smoke that damages the air sacs of the lungs and causes emphysema. Once cadmium gets into your lungs, it stays there.

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas contained in tobacco smoke. When you inhale carbon monoxide, it destroys oxygen molecules in your red blood cells. As the amount of carbon monoxide increases in your blood, the cells of the blood become starved for oxygen. One study shows that after only 30 minutes in a smoke-filled room, the carbon monoxide level in a nonsmoker's blood increases along with blood pressure and heart beat. Exposure to second-hand smoke causes increased risk for asthma and bronchitis, and new studies indicate heart disease as well.

Another interesting discovery is that the human body actually attracts tobacco smoke. Burning tobacco smoke creates a high electrical potential. The smoke in a room gravitates and clings to people in much the same way as iron filings are drawn to a magnet. Chemicals in tobacco smoke, called aldehydes and ketones, supply the penetrating smell while the tars hold them to your skin and your clothes. But the smoker is not sensitive to the smell because of the destructive effects on the inner lining of his or her nose.

For more information on the effects of second-hand smoke and how you can advocate against it, contact the American Cancer Society, 800-ACS-2345 (or 866-228-4327 for TTY}