Second Hand Smoke

[Niko]

Smoking is very prevalent in Asia

Second hand smoke, alternatively known as passive smoking is a big problem in Asia.

You've just come from your home country where cigarette smoking is banned in almost all public places. You're a non-smoker, and enjoy the smoke free venues scattered around your home town. Well, all this is about to change for you upon setting foot into Asia.

Many English teachers and students to both Korea and Japan have complained about the number of smokers adding to the already high pollution problems in big cities. I have walked into numerous coffee shops, only to walk straight out again as I couldn't see myself sitting in a blanket of smoke whilst sipping freshly brewed coffee.

Here are some interesting smoking statistics from the WHO (World Health Organization):

• About 15 billion cigarettes are sold daily - or 10 million every minute.
• Between 80,000 and 100,000 children worldwide start smoking every day - roughly half of whom live in Asia.
• China: About 67% of men smoke, and 4% of women.
• Cambodia: Studies show that about 67% of men smoke in urban areas (Phnom Penh), while in rural areas, where most people live, about 86% of men smoke.
• Japan: Has some of the weakest anti-tobacco laws for a developed nation, with few smoke-free public areas.
• Japan: About 51% of men smoke in Japan - this figure has dropped from the 1980s, but it is still very high for a developed nation.
• Malaysia: About half of all Malaysian men smoke.
• Philippines: About 60% of men smoke.
• South Korea: The Republic of Korea is the eighth largest cigarette market in the world, with an annual volume of 100 billion cigarettes, according to industry data.

Best advice when living abroad is to choose your venues carefully. Although the statistics may be frightening, you can still find yourself a smoke free venue to enjoy your next coffee or meal. As to clubs, expect to walk out smelling like an ashtray.

As a non-smoker I notice passive smoke more in England than in Thailand.

While a large number of people do smoke in Thailand, the vast majority are male. Very few women - other than bar workers - tend to smoke in Thailand.

Scott

[vare2]

Im okay with people who smoke althought Im a non smoker myself. However what pisses me off the most is when they do it in an enclosed public area such as a restaurant or when they threw cigarette butts anywhere on the street, WITHOUT EXTINGUISHING IT first gah I find that totally hateful

[Tutor]

Smoking is really a big problem in the Asian countries. I do agree at some bars and cafes you might just feel as if you are between the clouds. Only the difference the clouds are made of cigarettes and are smelly.

It is really common to find the buds thrown here and there and overall it looks dirty

[anthony s]

I am ok with people who smoke, I am still not convinced about passive smoking being a cause of Cancer. on the other hand I find belligerent drunks hard to abide by., but then each to his own eh!