Despite widespread laws banning smoking in public places, new research indicates nearly half of American teens who’ve never used tobacco are exposed to harmful secondhand smoke — many in their homes and family cars. Examining U.S. data from more than 18,000 middle school and high school students, researchers found that 48 percent reported exposure to secondhand smoke in 2013. Additionally, secondhand smoke exposure was reportedly nine times higher among never-smoking teens with no smoke-free rules in their home and car, compared to those with 100 percent smoke-free rules.

Secondhand smoke exposure is known to contribute to several health problems in children, including respiratory symptoms, impaired lung function, middle ear disease and sudden infant death syndrome, according to the study.

Key takeaway: If you are a parent or grandparent, take action. Stop punishing kids because of your habits/compulsion.

Source: The American Cancer Society offers more about the health risks of secondhand smoke.