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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Active and Passive Smoking?

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The main difference between active and passive smoking lies in the way the smoker and the non-smoker are exposed to the smoke. Both active and passive smoking have negative health effects, but the type of smoke inhaled by each group is different:

  • Active smoking: The active smoker breathes in the mainstream smoke (MSS) during a puff. This smoke is generated when the smoker inhales while holding the lit cigarette. Active smokers are mainly exposed to polar and poorly unsaturated oxygenated compounds.
  • Passive smoking: The passive smoker inhales not only the smoke generated by the lit cigarette between two puffs (SSS) but also the smoke exhaled by active smokers (EXS). Passive smokers are exposed to a different composition of smoke, which is thought to have a higher concentration of poorly oxygenated but highly unsaturated compounds compared to active smokers' inhaled smoke.

Both active and passive smoking have been linked to various health issues, such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. For example, passive smoking has nearly the same effect on olfactory function as active smoking, with both types of smoking having a significant negative impact on olfactory thresholds.

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  • What is the Difference Between Active and Passive Smoking?
  • Comparative Table: Active vs Passive Smoking

    • Comparative Table: Active vs Passive Smoking

    Here is a table comparing the differences between active and passive smoking:

    Aspect Active Smoking Passive Smoking
    Definition Active smoking refers to the actual act of a person lighting up a cigarette and smoking it. Passive smoking, also known as second-hand smoking or environmental tobacco smoke, is created through the exhaled particles of an active smoker.
    Health Risks Active smoking is associated with a wide range of negative health aspects, including the staining of fingers and the oropharynx due to nicotine, and an increased risk of infections in the upper respiratory tract. Passive smoking is associated with similar conditions but to a lesser extent. It can create a chemical dependence but not a psychological one.
    Exposure Active smokers are directly exposed to the smoke from their own cigarettes. Passive smokers are exposed to the smoke exhaled by active smokers or through environmental tobacco smoke.
    Initiation Active smoking requires the conscious act of lighting up a cigarette. Passive smoking can be involuntary and occur in places where smokers are present or have been present.

    Please note that neither active nor passive smoking is good for one's health, but active smoking is considered more detrimental than passive smoking.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.