Coincidentally with national no-smoking day, a new smoking risk scenario is emerging from research in the US.

Smokers who think they are protecting their children by smoking outside the home actually bring their smoke back in when they return.

Researchers from San Diego State University, California, say that far from protecting youngsters in the home, parents are brining back substantial quantities of nicotine into the home.

The nicotine, which is a by-product of smoking and one of the main ingredients of second-hand smoke, has been detected in the bodies of children of such parents in levels up to eight times those of non-smoking families.

It’s thought that the cigarette particles become lodged on the hair and clothes of parents as they smoke outside, which are brought back inside the house. Family members may then inhale them directly or after the dust has settled, unwittingly transfer them from hand to mouth. Young babies are particularly vulnerable because they often put objects into their mouths.

Although the levels of nicotine are quite low, say researchers, they could build over time, potentially making the children more prone to smoking-related problems such as asthma and sudden infant death syndrome.

An incentive to give up the weed

With almost 12 million smokers in the UK, over £19.5 billion is spent every year on cigarettes. For the individual smoker, this is an average annual cost of £1,635 that could be saved towards more rewarding and lasting purchases, says the Abbey National.

National no-smoking day, today 10 March, is a great time to consider what this money could be spent on if cigarettes were not a daily habit. The money spent in one year on smoking 20 cigarettes per day (£1,635) could pay for a seven night Eastern Caribbean cruise for two people at £1,530 with a little left over for the duty free shop.

Giving up 40 cigarettes per day over a two-year period would save £6,540. This is almost enough to buy a brand new Smart car, at £6,560. The same amount of cigarettes over a five-year period costs £16,352, which would cover the cost of the average wedding at £14,000. If this habit were maintained for seven years, a total of £22,890 would be spent. This could fund an 18 year old’s university education, costing an average of £22,500.

Even ‘social smokers’ could reap the benefits of kicking the habit. Just 20 cigarettes a week would cost £232.96 per year, and this is almost enough to pay for a two-week fly drive to Florida for two people (£269.00).

Angus Porter, Abbey’s Customer Director said, ”Giving up or cutting down on cigarettes can be tough, but the cash-saving aspect can be very rewarding. If the money is put towards a specific goal such as a summer holiday, new car or home improvement, the incentive to quit is far greater than just spending it on everyday purchases. Over the course of five years, the amount saved could fund far bigger goals, such as a new career or a round the world trip.”