What is a major health risk associated with smoke from tobacco indoors?

Smoke from tobacco indoors poses significant health risks primarily due to the presence of numerous harmful substances that can lead to allergies and respiratory diseases. Indoor tobacco smoke contains a wide range of toxic compounds, including particulate matter, nicotine, formaldehyde, and various carcinogens, all of which can irritate the lungs and airways.

When inhaled, these substances can trigger inflammatory responses in the body's respiratory system. This can contribute to conditions such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and worsen existing respiratory illnesses. Additionally, secondhand smoke exposure is a well-documented risk factor for developing allergies, particularly in children, as their developing immune systems are more susceptible to irritants and allergens.

While options like bacterial infections, cardiac arrest, and skin cancer may be associated with smoking or tobacco use in broader contexts, they do not capture the immediate and significant impact of indoor smoke on respiratory health as accurately as the risk of allergies and respiratory diseases.