Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Definition of Secondhand smoke
Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026
Secondhand smoke: Smoke that comes from the burning end of a cigarette or that is exhaled by smokers. Inhalation of secondhand smoke is called involuntary or passive smoking. It can cause the same illnesses, including lung cancer, that actually smoking cigarettes causes. Also known as environmental tobacco smoke (ETS).