Exposure to secondhand smoke – even at small amounts – is linked with greater risk of a serious heart rhythm disorder, according to research presented at EHRA 2024, a scientific congress of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). The likelihood of atrial fibrillation increased as the duration of passive smoking lengthened.
“The dangers of secondhand smoke were significant regardless of whether individuals were at home, outdoors, or at work, indicating that exposure universally elevates the risk of atrial fibrillation,” said study author Dr. Kyung-Yeon Lee of Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
“We should all make every effort to avoid spending time in smoky environments. The findings should also drive policymakers to further curb smoking in public areas and support smoking cessation programmes to improve public health.”
https://esc365.escardio.org/EHRA-Congress/sessions/10100
