Cotinine is a breakdown product of nicotine, thus cotinine in urine or other body fluids is an indicator of the amount of tobacco smoke a person has absorbed. It usually came from a daycare provider who smokes. Where There is Smoke Results indicated children were often exposed to smoke from many culprits and the damage was cumulative. If there were two smoking parents, or smoking in a daycare center, it just increased their overall exposure level. Although second-hand smoke's effect on children is well documented, the resulting dangers bear repeating.
Tobacco smoke damages a child's overall health.
Problems are diminished if the exposure is less frequent, of course, according to Ownby. For example, if a relative comes over for an hour and smokes in the vicinity of the child, the effects are slight. He advises parents to visit any daycare provider where the child is going to receive long-term care. It is nearly as important to ensure the relatives and babysitters who supervise the child do not smoke in the same area. It usually is a combination of a very thick skin as well as a lot of denial.