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Action on Smoking and Health
A National Legal-Action Antismoking Organization Entirely Supported by Tax-Deductible Contributions
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Excerpts from: The Real Risks to Children
By JANE E. BRODY New York Times [07/13/04]
In the concluding chapter of a recent report, published as a supplement in the
journal Pediatrics, Dr. Brent and his co-author, Dr. Michael Weitzman, a
pediatrician at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry,
reviewed what are unquestionably the leading risks to infants, children and
adolescents.
Most of the hazards that take the greatest toll on the health and lives of the young people in this country can be prevented, without any need for further research, legislation, environmental cleanup or any other measure that requires the action of anyone besides parents and caretakers.
Accidents are the leading cause of death in children under 15. But while the word accident implies an unexpected and unavoidable event, most accidents involving children could be prevented by vigilance. Here are the most important hazards.
Sudden infant death syndrome Risk is reduced by putting infants to sleep on their backs and providing a nonsmoking environment.
Burns Infants can suffer burns from kitchen equipment or hot items pulled off the table, as well as hot water in a tub and uncovered radiators. Toddlers should never have access to matches, cigarette lighters or fuel-filled or flint igniters.
House fires can be started by adults who fall asleep while smoking, faulty wiring, defective heating systems and space heaters.
Secondhand smoke Parents or caretakers who smoke in the house or car in the presence of infants or children increase their risk of sudden death, asthma and pneumonia. They also set a terrible example.
click here to view the full report from Pediatrics
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