The effect of childhood exposure to secondhand smoke on urinary cotinine and 8 hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine levels: A cross-sectional study

Introduction

The health consequences of exposure to tobacco smoke during childhood can be more severe than those associated with exposure in adulthood. Exposure to secondhand smoke is also a significant issue for children, who constitute a vulnerable group. While urinary cotinine measurements serve as metabolic indicators of nicotine exposure, measurements of 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) reflect DNA damage. This study evaluates the results of urine analysis obtained from healthy children, classified according to household smoking status.