Burden of Disease Attributable to Secondhand Smoking in Korea

Abstract

This study aims to estimate the burden of disease (BOD) due to secondhand smoking (SHS) in Korea. SHS-related diseases were selected via systematic review. Population attributable fraction (PAF) was calculated by using standard formula. Disability adjusted life years (DALYs) were estimated using Statistical Office and Health Insurance data. SHS burden was calculated by multiplying nonsmoker’s BOD with the PAF of SHS. Total BOD due to SHS was 44 143 DALYs with 57% from males and 43% from females. The highest percentage of SHS burden was due to stroke. BOD was highest in the 50s age group in both genders. Years of life lost contributed major part of BOD due to all diseases. SHS burden in Korea in 2013 was the highest among the high-income Asia Pacific group countries. Effective intervention policies with more focus on vulnerable groups like adults in their 50s should be implemented to control SHS-related burden.