Another epidemiological "gem" has just hit the press.

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"Children who are exposed to second-hand smoke in their homes are not at increased risk of cancer, according to a 10-year study commissioned by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. The study, conducted in Europe, had been eagerly awaited because it involved a large sample of individuals and special attempts had been made to minimize misclassifications and control for various factors. " "Adults exposed to second-hand smoke -- which experts termed "a low-level lung carcinogen" -- had a slightly higher risk of lung cancer. The amount of cotinine -- a breakdown product of nicotine -- in their blood was only about 1 percent of that of active smokers. The research involved 650 patients with lung cancer and more than 1,500 healthy people of "all ages" up to 74. Cancer experts said the European study is particularly authoritative because it took into consideration the criticisms of other studies". (Source: Reuters, "Slightly Higher Cancer Risk for Passive Smokers Found," Washington Post, October 7, 1998.)

We are pleased that yet another major study confirms what we have stated all along: the dangers of secondhand smoke are infinitesimally small -- if they exist at all.

And once again, the reality is that SECONDHAND SMOKE IS NOT DANGEROUS, AND IT CANNOT BE PROVEN OTHERWISE.