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Thirdhand smoke poses lingering danger

Harmful cigarette chemicals that linger on surfaces can go on to pollute the air

lit cigarette

HAZARDOUS PLUME  The toxic compounds from cigarette smoke can land on surfaces and then produce gases and particles that pose health risks.

Krzysiek_z_poczty/iStockphoto

By Beth Mole

- More than 2 years ago

The stench of past cigarettes may be as toxic as a breath of fresh smoke.

That loitering odor, called thirdhand smoke, may cause up to 60 percent of the harm caused by routine exposure to smoke, including a year or so of life lost, scientists report in a paper to be published in Environmental Science & Technology.