Living or working with a smoker increases the risks of developing Alzheimer’s disease, according to new research from Cambridge University and the Peninsula Medical School, Exeter.

The study found that breathing second-hand smoke can trigger a decline in mental health. Those who are badly affected by passive smoking increase their risk by 44%.

Researchers found a link between passive smoke and cognitive impairment (which involves suffering loss of memory and mental ability deterioration until dementia finally sets in).

Data from nearly 5,000 non-smokers over the age of 50 was analysed and those exposed to passive smoke in the workplace or at home increased their risk of suffering poor mental health. Millions of people are potentially at risk.

Tests involved measuring levels of cotinine in participants saliva. Cotinine is a marker for exposure to nictoine. Participants were then tested for verbal memory, calculations, time orientation and verbal fluency.

These results add to the growing health problems smoking and passive smoking can cause. To prevent the possible onset of conditions such as heart disease, strokes, cancer and now dementia, give up smoking (or avoid smoking near others).

If you’re trying to stop smoking, complementary and alternative medicine has a variety of proven methods for quitting.

Read more about smoking addiction and therapies that can help here

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