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December 19th, 2008:

Should The Full Smoking Ban Be Delayed?

Dec 19, 2008 – SCMP

We would not need this ban if smoking did not create problems for people.

Smoking does not just affect someone’s health, it also has some effect on the interaction between people.

For example, if I see someone smoking on the street, I always try to walk away from them. I do not want to be exposed to second-hand smoke.

Some people say they smoke because it helps them to relieve stress.

However, there are other ways to reduce stress, other than resorting to an addictive substance.

I am also concerned about the effect smoking has in places like restaurants.

I was in a restaurant one Sunday afternoon in Wan Chai and I noticed a man at the table next to me puffing away on a cigarette while he waited for his meal to arrive. Fortunately, I was able to move, but I found it hard to believe he seemed oblivious to the cloud of toxins he was exhaling.

I think most people have the same negative feelings towards smokers.

It is up to smokers to make healthy choices instead of lighting up. They could join friends in sports activities or go walking.

Alicia Chan, Wan Chai