Reducing exposure of babies to second-hand smoke

Exposure to second-hand smoke remains the most preventable risk factor for respiratory infections in babies and children.

Menzies tested whether a family-based program, delivered by Aboriginal community workers, could reduce new babies’ exposure to second-hand smoke and so reduce respiratory infections.

“We worked with Danila Dilba in Darwin and researchers in Auckland working with Maori families,” said head of Menzies’ Tobacco Control program, Associate Professor David Thomas.

“While we did not find that the program reduced exposure to second-hand smoke and respiratory infections, the good news is that most families already reported rules banning smoking in their homes and cars.”
Menzies have developed web-based resources and an app for health staff to use to talk with families about secondhand smoke.