A great number of side effects of second-hand smoke are known to people and a recent study has added one more to it. The study conducted by the researchers from the New York University School of Medicine has claimed that exposure to passive smoke almost doubles the risk of hearing loss among teenagers.

The researchers have said that the extent of exposure which could be harmful for the ears of young people is not known yet. Some previous researchers have also claimed that smoke increases the risk of middle ear infections. It is also believed that exposure to second hand smoke can harm the delicate blood supply to the ear which can result in serious changes.

Dr. Ralph Holme of the charity, Action on Hearing Loss, formerly RNID, said, “This research strongly suggests that children exposed to tobacco smoke are at increased risk of hearing loss”.

Lead researcher, Professor Anil Lalwani, from the New York University School of Medicine, said that the study highlights the need of addressing the problem of smoking in public places and at home.

He further added that there is a need to regularly screen kids for hearing loss who are frequently exposed to cigarette smoke.