Second and Thirdhand Smoke Exposure, Attitudes and Protective Practices: Results from a Survey of Hispanic Residents in Multi-unit Housing

This study describes the characteristics, attitudes, knowledge, and behaviors related to SHS, THS and marijuana smoke exposure (MSHS) of a sample of Hispanic tenants in randomly selected MUH units in eastern metro Los Angeles (n  = 402). Although most participants (97%) banned smoking inside their homes, 80% reported infiltration of SHS inside their apartments within the last year. Most (85%) favored a complete ban on smoking in apartment buildings. Twenty-eight percent did not know that marijuana (MSHS) smoke exposure is also harmful to their health. Knowledge scores were higher among Spanish-speakers (p <  0.05). Given the interpersonal barriers to advocating for change, widespread policy and communication interventions are also necessary to protect Hispanic MUH residents’ rights to clean air in their living space.
Source: Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health - Category: Global & Universal Source Type: research