Researchers Warn About Dangers Of 'Third-Hand Smoke'

January 6, 2009 8:13 a.m. EST

Miami, FL (AHN) - Researchers are now warning that dust left over from cigarette smoke can be harmful to children's health.

So-called "third-hand smoke" is the harmful residue that settles on surfaces after a cigarette has been extinguished, according to researchers from the Massachusetts General Hospital.

They say this residue can also linger on a smoker's clothes and hair.

Children are at a particular risk to third-hand smoke exposure because they breath close to these surface, and even lick or such them, the researchers said.

Anti-smoking groups responded to the report by repeating their call for smokers to smoke outside, and now want them to wear a "smoking jacket" that should be removed when they come back inside.