Possible link between secondhand smoke, dementia

February 13, 2009 The study found people exposed to secondhand smoke may face as much as a 44 percent increased risk of developing dementia.

In this study researchers tested the patients saliva for a nicotine residue and also gave them neuro-psychological tests to assess brain function.

Scientists reporting in the online journal BMJ.com say it's known that smoking is bad but this study suggests that this is the same for passive smoking.

Some experts say this study should provide further motivation for public policy aimed at making all public spaces smoke free.