Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 08:22am on 08 Sep 2026,Tuesday Health & Wellness
Deaths linked to second-hand smoke in India have increased by nearly 50% since 1990, according to a new study published in The Lancet Public Health. The study estimated that 325,600 people died from illnesses linked to passive smoking in 2023. About 444 million Indians were exposed to second-hand smoke that year. Passive smoking is linked to serious diseases, including heart disease, stroke, lung cancer and COPD. Children are especially at risk. Researchers said smoke-free homes, workplaces and public places can help reduce exposure. They also called for greater awareness, stronger tobacco controls and better support to help people quit smoking.