11:53pm UK, Monday May 26, 2008

Passive smoking makes children more likely to catch serious diseases, according to a new study.

180 Smoking cigarettes fags ashtray nicotine

Passive smoking poses a threat

Youngsters who were around smokers were almost 50% more likely tohave to go to hospital for an infectious disease before the age of eight.

One in three children who were within three metres of smoke in their early years ended up in hospital.

The study on the Tobacco Control website, followed 7,402 children born in Hong Kong in April and May 1997.

Researchers recorded their experiences for eight years.

The effects of smoking were even more severe for children with a low birth weight, the study found.

Those exposed to tobacco smoke were 75% more likely to need treatment for diseases such as meningococcal and respiratory illnesses.

The study's authors from the University of Hong Kong, say passive smoking can weaken the immune system and cause respiratory problems.

The report says: "An excess risk of severe morbidity from both respiratory and other infections for all infants exposed to second hand smoke suggests that such exposure, as well as acting via direct contact with the respiratory tract, may also affect the immune system."