No More Tobacco

Secondhand Smoke Exposure Worsens Cystic Fibrosis… originally published by Medical News Today.

Researchers at Johns Hopkins have discovered the first genetic evidence that secondhand smoke can worsen lung disease. The report in this week’s Journal of the American Medical Association describes one gene variation that can weaken lung function as well as shorten the lifespan of those affected by cystic fibrosis and also are exposed to secondhand smoke.

“We’re really surprised that such a small genetic change can double the negative effects of secondhand smoke on lung function in these patients,” says Garry Cutting, M.D., a professor of pediatrics and medicine and member of the McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine. “It’s always been suspected that secondhand smoke is detrimental to lung disease patients, and now we have a handle on one specific gene that clearly makes it worse for those with CF.”
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Yet another reason not to smoke. It is so easy for your loved ones to breathe in secondhand, the won’t even realize it. If you smoke, stop smoking now.  There is help. If you know someone that smokes, try to help them quit. Guide them to the right resources. You can make a difference - turn a place into a smoke-free environment.