Children who are exposed to second-hand smoke in their homes are not at increased risk of cancer, according to a 10-year study commissioned by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. The study, conducted in Europe, had been eagerly awaited because it involved a large sample of individuals and special attempts had been made to minimize misclassifications and control for various factors.

• Adults exposed to second-hand smoke -- which experts termed "a low-level lung carcinogen" -- had a slightly higher risk of lung cancer.

• The amount of cotinine -- a breakdown product of nicotine -- in their blood was only about 1 percent of that of active smokers.

• The research involved 650 patients with lung cancer and more than 1,500 healthy people of "all ages" up to 74.

• Cancer experts said the European study is particularly authoritative because it took into consideration the criticisms of other studies.

Source: Reuters, "Slightly Higher Cancer Risk for Passive Smokers Found," Washington Post, October 7, 1998.