Author: Jonathan Moore
A full smoking ban has been passed in Spain.
The new law will tighten existing anti-tobacco laws ? banning smoking in bars, cafes, restaurants and any other enclosed, public space.
Going further than most other European smoking cessation measures, the new legislation will also make people stop smoking in open areas near hospitals and schools, and any area near a children?s playground. Smoking will even be banned on TV, forcing presenters and guests to stub out their cigarettes before going live on air.
Spain now has some of the strictest anti-smoking laws in Europe. Bar owners say the measure will damage their business and cost up to 140,000 jobs. Profits have already been dented by as much as 50% due to the recession. Many smokers are also unhappy with the change. ?People like a cigarette with the beer or coffee. Non-smokers might agree with this move, but not me,? one disgruntled elderly man told the BBC.
Smoke-filled bars are normal in Spain, and seeing people on street-side cafes with cigarettes in their hand, as they enjoy coffees, is common place. Cultural barriers such as these will make it difficult to enforce the rule.
But parents interviewed at children?s playgrounds by the BBC approved of the ban. Doctors also argued that the new restrictions will help people quit smoking, thereby saving lives. In a country where 160 people die every day ? four of them from passive smoking ? this could have a hugely positive impact.
Smoking is related to lung cancer, heart disease, infertility and a range of other illnesses; problems that people who give up smoking can avoid. If you would like to stop smoking, consult with your doctor. Smoking cessation medications such as Champix have helped some people quit smoking.
No comments:
Post a Comment