Position Statement on the Effects of Cigarette Smoke on Allergic Diseases*
Arlene Grace S. Sandejas, MD
Maria Rowena B. Valerio, MD
Jacqueline R. Rodolfo, MD
Gina Marie E. Ponio – Baloyo, MD
Department of Pediatrics, Manila Doctors Hospital
Department of Pediatrics, Angeles City Sacred Heart Medical Center
Department of Pediatrics, Medical Center Manila
Department of Pediatrics, Green City Medical Center
Corresponding Author: Arlene Grace S. Sandejas, MD Philippine Society of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, Inc
Unit 2504 Medical Plaza Ortigas Condominium 25 San Miguel Avenue, Ortigas Center, Pasig City, Philippines
+63 9175396426
arlene.sandejas@gmail.com
*This manuscript is a product of the Pollution Council of 2017-2018
and was presented as a council update on November 29, 2017. This published paper is the updated version.
ABSTRACT
Environmental tobacco smoke exposure is one of the major causes of air pollution that has been suspected to play a role in the rise of allergic diseases worldwide. Studies have shown that exposure to environmental tobacco smoke during pregnancy and during childhood increases the risk of developing not only allergic airway diseases but also allergic skin diseases. Smokefree legislation has been shown to help in decreasing the burden of allergic diseases in the country. Thus, we fully support the implementation of smokefree legislation in the hope that it will continue to decrease the number of smokers in the country. We strive to educate our patients against the ill effects of environmental tobacco smoke and continue to urge current smokers to quit smoking, not only for themselves but for their entire family.
Keywords: environmental tobacco smoke, e-cigarettes, atopic dermatitis, asthma, allergic rhinitis, smokefree interventions