Second hand smoke has been an issue dealt with many people. It is not only self smoking that is harmful for anyone, but also second hand smoke that can come from a person who is smoking nearby. The most affected are small children, who without any knowledge are subjected to smoke.

For many decades, the researchers have been warning of the potential health risks associated with the tobacco smoke exposure, especially among children whose parents smoke. Now a new study conducted by the researchers from the University of Arizona add to those earlier reports by stating that the effect of inhaling second hand smoke during childhood can often lead to effect that persist even in adulthood.

Juliana Pugmire, research specialist at the University of Arizona in Tucson said, "Persistent respiratory illness in childhood and young adulthood could indicate an increased risk of chronic respiratory illness and lung function deficits in later life". Although it is a known fact that many children across the globe are subject to Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS), there is very little information available or even awareness among people regarding the long term affects that it has on children. There are many respiratory illnesses that can persist in adulthood, irrespective of the fact that the person smokes.