Final answer:
The school nurse's campaign to inform parents about the dangers of second-hand smoke, or environmental smoke, is very important. This smoke exposes children to numerous health risks, including increased instances of lung cancer, respiratory infections, SIDS, and worsened asthma, as well as cardiovascular diseases and various cancers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Effects of Second-hand Smoke on Children
The school nurse is correct to focus on the dangers of second-hand smoke, which is a significant health hazard, particularly to children. This type of smoke can lead to a higher risk of heart and lung diseases among young individuals. It's not just active smoking that poses a threat; non-smokers, especially children, can also suffer serious health consequences from inhaling environmental smoke. Environmental smoke, also known as second-hand smoke, is composed of the same carcinogenic substances that smokers inhale directly. Children exposed to second-hand smoke are at an increased risk of developing lung cancer, chronic respiratory infections, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), ear infections, and exacerbated asthma symptoms. Cardiovascular disease and various types of cancer can also be a consequence of exposure to tobacco smoke, whether directly or indirectly.
Avoiding second-hand smoke is crucial for maintaining respiratory and cardiovascular health, as well as reducing the risk of various types of cancers. Given the severity of these potential health outcomes, it's essential to reduce children's exposure to environmental smoke to protect their health.