
It has been shown that pregnant women who smoke put at risk not only their pregnancy but also the health of their children.
Some harmful effects, such as a lower than normal neonatal weight, can also occur with just the consumption of a few cigarettes a day.
Instead, fathers are reminded that smoking decreases sexual potency and fertility; recent studies also indicate that it can cause damage to sperm and an increased risk, in children, of developing certain diseases.
To quit smoking there are anti-smoking centres, which can be found on the website of the Istituto Superiore di Sanità (www.iss.it/fumo) or by calling the toll-free number 800554088.