Thirdhand Smoke Exposure in Homes with Children under 48 Months during the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic Confinement in Barcelona (Spain)

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Due to serious restrictions on mobility, some children might have increased exposure to THS due to home confinement. To characterize third-hand smoke (THS) exposure in children under 48 months at homes in Spain during the confinement of the first wave of COVID-19.Methods: Cross-sectional study of a non-probabilistic sample of parents (n = 311). The gathered information was about smoking status, second-hand smoke (SHS) exposure of their children, and voluntary regulation of tobacco consumption at their home. A variable of THS exposure at home was derived, classifying as ‘THS exposed’ those children whose parents reported living with a smoker or with smoking parents and non-exposed to SHS; ‘Non exposed’ children were, therefore, all other children.Results: Almost a quarter of the children (23.5%) were exposed to THS. This prevalence was significantly higher among those children whose parents increased tobacco consumption during confinement (40.5%), whose parents had lower or medium educational levels (42.9% and 41.7%), and with younger parents (24.8%). In contrast, the prevalence was significantly lower among those children living in homes with complete voluntary smoke restrictions (21.1%).Conclusions/Recommendations: To reduce THS exposure among children, it is important to work on information campaigns to raise awareness regarding THS exposure, promote recommendations to avoid exposure to THS, and develop legislation promoting smoke-free environments (in homes and vehicles).