These infections in turn lead to thousands of hospitalizations of children each year. The incidence of sudden infant death syndrome quadruples if either mother or both parents are smokers. Children with allergies and nasal congestion who are also exposed to tobacco smoke are up to six times more likely than others to have persistent middle ear infections requiring the surgical insertion of tubes. Smoke and Minors Exposure to ETS is responsible for increased frequency of asthma episodes in adolescents. There is also evidence which suggests that adolescents exposed to ETS may have decreased pulmonary function tests, higher cholesterol levels and may increase their risks of heart disease as adults.
Surveys show a disturbing trend of smoking among young people.
The rate is highest among high school seniors. Tobacco advertising that seems to be aimed at young people is troubling. Many communities and local governments are increasing their efforts to control such marketing practices and the topic has received a good deal of attention in the media in recent years. In some states, parental smoking is an important issue in deciding questions of custody in divorce cases. As a parent, you can limit your children's exposure to secondhand smoke.