RIVERSIDE – (INT) – Second-hand smoke is a well-documented health hazard. Researchers are finding its cousin has its own bag of demons.

Thirdhand-smoke (THS) results when exhaled smoke and smoke emanating from the tip of burning cigarettes gets on surfaces such as clothing, hair, homes, and cars.

Researchers at UC Riverside have found that THS exposure has a significant effect on the liver and brain as early as one month after initiation of exposure – an effect that worsens with time.

THS exposure for two months resulted in further molecular damage in the liver, and at four to six months caused even more such damage. Additional stress hormones were seen in mice brains at two months, four months, and six months, eventually causing immune fatigue in the mice.

Manuela Martins-Green, who led the project, labeled THS is a stealth toxin, a silent killer. Contaminants can be absorbed through the skin and through breathing.

“Although our research was not done on humans, people should be aware that hotel rooms, cars, and homes that were occupied by smokers are very likely to be contaminated with THS,” she said.

Story Date: September 23, 2017