If you’re still lighting up, new research suggests the effects could be having a greater impact than you think, affecting the lives of your children and even your grandchildren.
Researchers from the University of Melbourne found that boys exposed to their parents’ smoking before puberty may grow up to pass on poor lung health to their kids. The risk grows even higher for grandchildren who were also exposed to second-hand smoke.
“Smoking may adversely affect lung function not only in smokers but also in their children and grandchildren,” the researchers said.
“Fathers exposed to tobacco smoke during prepuberty may still reduce risk for future generations by avoiding smoking around their children.”
The findings come from the Tasmanian Longitudinal Health Study, which tracked the health of 890 father-child pairs. The study linked early exposure to tobacco smoke with a higher likelihood of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) — a condition often referred to as a “silent killer” and currently the fourth leading cause of death globally, according to the World Health Organisation.
Researchers highlighted that the period before puberty in boys is particularly important, as exposure to harmful substances during this time may alter gene expression and the way cells repair themselves — changes that could potentially be passed on to their future children.
The authors noted, however, that the results were observational and do not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
However, the findings are no doubt concerning for older Australians, many of whom continue to smoke. In 2022–2023, approximately 500,000 Australians aged 60 and over smoked daily, representing about 24.7 per cent of all daily smokers in Australia.
If these findings raise concerns about the potential impact on your children and grandchildren, it’s never too late to quit. Here are some practical steps to help you get started:
Set a quit date – Choose a specific day to stop smoking and prepare yourself mentally for it. Having a clear start helps you commit.
Identify triggers – Notice when and why you smoke, such as after meals, with coffee, or when stressed. Plan alternatives like chewing gum, drinking water, or taking a short walk.
Use nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) – Patches, gum, lozenges, or inhalers can reduce cravings and make withdrawal more manageable.
Stay active – Physical activity helps distract from cravings, lifts your mood, and supports your overall health. Even short walks or stretching breaks help.
Seek support – Let friends, family, or support groups know you’re quitting. Talking to someone or joining a quitline can boost motivation and accountability.
Reward yourself – Track your progress and celebrate milestones, like a day or week smoke-free. Use the money saved from cigarettes for something enjoyable.
Quitting can feel challenging at any age, but every small step counts — not just for your own health, but for the well-being of your family too.
-with AAP.
IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.
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