Cigarette draw backs for smoker's kids, grandchildren

Fears over the long-lasting impact of smoking on families have sparked a health warning. (Dean Lewins/AAP PHOTOS)

By Rachael Ward in Melbourne

Smokers harm their own lungs but might also affect the health of their children and future grandchildren.

Boys exposed to their parents’ smoking could grow up to pass on poor lung health to their kids, University of Melbourne researchers have found.

The risk of harm was even greater for grandchildren also exposed to passive smoking.

“Smoking may adversely affect lung function not only in smokers but also in their children and grandchildren,” the researchers said.

“Fathers exposed to tobacco smoke during prepuberty may still reduce risk for future generations by avoiding smoking around their children.”

Health results from 890 father-child