BCSE Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Study Resource

Passive smoking, also known as secondhand smoke exposure, has been established in numerous studies as a significant risk factor for various cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. One of the prominent health issues related to passive smoking is coronary artery disease.

When non-smokers are exposed to the smoke emitted from cigarettes, they inhale a mixture of thousands of chemicals, many of which are harmful and can cause inflammation and damage to blood vessels. This can lead to the development of atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaque in the arteries), significantly increasing the risk of coronary artery disease.

In contrast, the other choices suggest outcomes that are not supported by research. For instance, passive smoking has consistently been associated with an increased risk of lung cancer, not a decreased risk. Additionally, exposure to tobacco smoke does not improve respiratory health; in fact, it often exacerbates conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. Finally, secondhand smoke is linked to cognitive decline, not enhanced cognitive function. Overall, substantial evidence supports that passive smoking is detrimental to cardiovascular health, making coronary artery disease a correct answer in this context.