169k views
2 votes
Maryann is pregnant and works in a smoke-filled environment. What can you tell her about passive smoking?

A) The negative effects of smoking are only evident in children born to heavy smokers.
B) Passive smoking is related to low birth weight, infant death, and childhood respiratory illnesses.
C) Smoke-filled environments are harmful to expectant mothers, but not to their unborn children.
D) The effects of passive smoking are not yet known.

1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

Option B. Maryann should be made aware that passive smoking can lead to low birth weight, infant death, and respiratory illnesses in children and is highly detrimental to her unborn child.

Step-by-step explanation:

Maryann, who is pregnant and works in a smoke-filled environment, should be informed that passive smoking is associated with multiple adverse outcomes. The correct answer to the question is B) Passive smoking is related to low birth weight, infant death, and childhood respiratory illnesses. When a mother smokes, or is exposed to secondhand smoke, the developing baby is subject to risks such as premature birth, stillbirth, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Furthermore, secondhand smoke comprises carcinogenic substances that increase the risk of lung cancer in non-smokers and can be particularly harmful to children's respiratory health.

Exposure to secondhand smoke, even for non-smokers, can lead to serious health issues over time, including lung cancer, heart disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The only way to completely safeguard non-smokers from the dangers of secondhand smoke is to maintain a smoke-free environment. Tobacco smoke's contents diminish blood oxygen levels and can result in growth and other pregnancy-related complications. Therefore, it is imperative for the health of both Maryann and her unborn child that she seeks to work in a smoke-free environment during her pregnancy.

User Jenilee
by
8.1k points