An estimated 92% of children in Bangladesh are exposed to second-hand smoke (SHS), according to a new study.

The findings, published in the Nicotine and Tobacco Research Journal, also show that the level of exposure to SHS in Dhaka indicates widespread and unrestricted smoking.

According to the study, widespread exposure to SHS is likely due to the high prevalence of smoking among men in Bangladesh. The prevalence of tobacco use and smoking among adults in Bangladesh is 35.3% and 18%, respectively.

Bangladesh has introduced laws banning smoking in public places; however, enforcement of the laws remains weak.

Against this backdrop, the research team conducted a survey of 1,368 children aged 9-14 from 34 primary schools in Dhaka to assess their exposure to SHS.

Compared to children living with nonsmokers, those living with adult smokers had higher levels of SHS exposure.

Similarly, children who lived in homes where smoking was allowed indoors had slightly higher levels of SHS exposure than children where smoking was not allowed.

The extent of exposure to SHS indicates unrestricted smoking in both public and private locations.

“It is essential to complement smoking restrictions with smoking cessation advice and support in these circumstances,” said Prof Kamran Siddiqi from the University of York, UK, and the study's lead researcher.