Half of NYC non-smokers exposed to smoke

NEW YORK, April 8 (UPI) -- More than half of New York City non-smokers have been exposed to second-hand smoke at levels high enough to leave residues in the body, researchers said.

A New York City health department study, published online in the journal Nicotine and Tobacco Research, showed that 57 percent of adult non-smoking New Yorkers have elevated cotinine levels -- a by-product of nicotine breakdown -- compared to 45 percent of non-smoking adults nationwide, a finding that may reflect the city's dense, urban character.

The data, from the New York City Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, was conducted in 2004 -- one year after New York City's smoke-free air law took effect.

Although the law protects non-smokers from the dangers of second-hand smoke at work and in some public places, this study shows that many non-smokers are not fully protected, the study said. People are still exposed to smoke in homes, on sidewalks and building entrances, officials said.

"Tobacco smoke is a toxic pollutant," Dr. Thomas R. Frieden, New York City health commissioner said in a statement. "Most New York City non-smokers are breathing in dangerous chemicals in second-hand smoke, potentially increasing the risk of cancer and heart disease. Households with a smoker should set a 'no smoking' policy at home to protect the family."