Smoker

Why has it been so difficult to create smoke-free areas in Indonesia? The answer lies in the way laws are made

Retrieved on: 
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
Smoke, Smoking, Politics, Islam, Ministry, Smoker, Research, Human, Policy, Drug

As of 2018 only 345 out of 514 districts in Indonesia had issued laws on smoke-free areas in 2018.

Key Points: 
  • As of 2018 only 345 out of 514 districts in Indonesia had issued laws on smoke-free areas in 2018.
  • In June 2023, more than ten years after the regulation was issued nationally, 13% of districts were still yet to create local smoke-free area laws.
  • Our recent study shows the challenges local governments face translating national laws into local laws as well as the role of local politics.

Smoke-free area challenges in three provinces

  • Breaking this rule can result in various punishments, including fines or imprisonment, depending on the local regulations.
  • We analysed smoke-free area regulations in three provinces: Aceh, Malang, East Java and Bandung, West Java, to understand how local contexts influence the trajectory of law-making.
  • Aceh has one of the highest smoking rates in Indonesia and smoking plays an important social role.

Local differences

  • Each local government must go through the formal law-making process, which requires time, money and resources to research and draft the law.
  • We found the main reason for the delay was a lack of local legislative support.
  • Local governments are also required to discuss the proposed laws with relevant stakeholders to ensure the local community’s needs are met.
  • While some local leaders ardently championed the cause, their ability to influence local parliaments* is limited.

Political dynamics and patchwork laws

  • Our study also showed how making local laws is intertwined with local political dynamics.
  • The 2014 national elections shifted the narrative in Malang with the rise of political parties more supportive of smoke-free areas.
  • In Aceh, a medical doctor, the head of the smoke-free area task force, was pivotal in pushing for the required smoke-free area laws.

What’s next?

  • Our study highlights the cumbersome process of law creation.
  • Giving local politicians responsibility for creating local laws based on pre-existing national regulations creates multiple issues, especially if they do not see it as a priority.


Elisabeth Kramer receives funding from Sydney Southeast Asia Centre (SSEAC) at University of Sydney for conducting this research. Anastasia Maria Sri Redjeki, Eni Maryani, Lestari Nurhajati, Masduki, dan Rizanna Rosemary tidak bekerja, menjadi konsultan, memiliki saham, atau menerima dana dari perusahaan atau organisasi mana pun yang akan mengambil untung dari artikel ini, dan telah mengungkapkan bahwa ia tidak memiliki afiliasi selain yang telah disebut di atas.

HILDA survey at a glance: 7 charts reveal we’re smoking less, taking more drugs and still binge drinking

Retrieved on: 
Sunday, February 11, 2024
Cocaine, Prohibition, Smoking, Household, Binge drinking, Female, Herbal cigarette, Life, HILDA, Methamphetamine, Drinking, COVID, Male, Ageing, Smoker, Electronic cigarette

Australians’ vices, including drinking, smoking and illicit drugs, have been revealed in the latest HILDA survey.

Key Points: 
  • Australians’ vices, including drinking, smoking and illicit drugs, have been revealed in the latest HILDA survey.
  • The survey collects information on many facets of life and is the only study of its kind in Australia.
  • Indeed, HILDA shows that over 60% of people who quit smoking take it up again within three years.
  • Read more: HILDA data show women's job prospects improving relative to men's, and the COVID changes might have helped

This is how tobacco damages our cells

Retrieved on: 
Friday, February 9, 2024
Communication, Mouth, Smell, COPD, Bronchiole, Nicotine, Cardiovascular disease, Survival rate, Cancer, Neuropathic pain, Depression, Cell death, Psychosis, Macrophage, Cauchy stress tensor, Anxiety, Smoke, Infection, Pharynx, Muscle weakness, Mucus, Virus, Oral cancer, Amnesia, Addiction, Smoker, Nervous system, Fatigue, Tobacco, DNA, Nose, Throat, Risk, Asphyxia, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Immune system, Schizophrenia, Tissue, Taste, Neuron, Disease, Bronchus, Lung cancer, Saliva, Cell

With the countless studies available today on the effects of tobacco use, we should have no trouble convincing ourselves and others of how harmful it is.

Key Points: 
  • With the countless studies available today on the effects of tobacco use, we should have no trouble convincing ourselves and others of how harmful it is.
  • The cells that make up our tissues, organs and body systems are sensitive to the effects of external toxic agents, many of which can be found in tobacco.
  • Many smokers not only accept this, but also ignore the serious danger it poses to the people around them.

Initial effects in the mouth and pharynx

  • When tobacco smoke enters our body, the first cells to receive it are in the mouth, nose and throat.
  • These effects on the immune system are also linked to a higher likelihood of developing cancer.
  • We also cannot forget that tobacco smoke robs us of our sense of taste and smell, leaving an almost continuous bitter taste in the mouth.

Lung damage

  • Furthermore, due to the direct damage caused by tobacco on the tissue that maintains the structure of the lungs, the bronchi and bronchioles become blocked, generating symptoms similar to suffocation.
  • As if that were not enough, people with COPD are also more likely to develop cardiovascular disease, and lung cancer.

Black tar and macrophages

  • We can cast our minds back to the previous image of my father’s pipe, black and sticky with tar.
  • It so happens that the lungs are rich in macrophages – special cells that play a key role in our immune systems by reacting to attacks, producing inflammatory responses.
  • These cells end up ingesting the tar from tobacco, and they eventually die loaded with this substance which builds up and gives a smoker’s lungs their characteristic blackened appearance.

Nicotine’s effects on neurons: dependence and addiction

  • As with any other compound that stimulates neurotransmitter receptors, permanent stimulation desensitises neurons.
  • This means that the neurons reduce the number of receptors, or change their sensitivity to the stimulant.
  • This desensitisation process can lead not only to nicotine dependence, but also to other diseases such as memory loss.


Guillermo López Lluch is a member of the Spanish Society of Cell Biology, the Spanish Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the Spanish Society of Geriatrics and Gerontology, the Society for Free Radical Research and the International Coenzyme Q10 Association. The research carried out by the author is financed by public funds from the Spanish Government or the Autonomous Government of Andalusia.

NEW DATA: 70% OF AMERICANS UNAWARE OF COMMON VASCULAR DISEASE THAT IS ONE OF THE LEADING CAUSES OF AMPUTATION

Retrieved on: 
Thursday, February 8, 2024
Pulse, Interventional radiology, Health equity, SCAI, Society for Vascular Surgery, Pain, Peripheral artery disease, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Prevalence, Interventions, SIR, University, Heart, Health, Amputation, Society, Diabetes, Heated tobacco product, Smoker, Risk, Patient, Leg, Rest, Vascular disease, Society of Interventional Radiology, PAD, Walking, MBA, Association of Black Cardiologists, Doctor of Philosophy

WASHINGTON, Feb. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a new national survey released today by the PAD Pulse Alliance, 70% of Americans are unaware of peripheral artery disease (PAD) – the most common vascular disease in which leg arteries become narrowed, reducing or cutting off blood flow, contributing to 400 amputations performed each day in the United States. The top risk factors for PAD are common chronic health conditions that disproportionately impact underserved communities. Yet among Black and Hispanic adults, nearly 80% report never having a doctor or healthcare provider discuss PAD with them – underscoring the need to start the conversation.

Key Points: 
  • The top risk factors for PAD are common chronic health conditions that disproportionately impact underserved communities.
  • That's why we're encouraging anyone with leading risk factors, diabetes, high blood pressure and use of tobacco products, to know your 'three for PAD' and talk to your doctor."
  • Data from the PAD Pulse Alliance survey highlights a disconnect among people between the risk factors and their personal perceived risk of PAD.
  • Nearly eight in 10 Black and Hispanic never had a doctor or healthcare provider talk with them about PAD.

BRITISH COLUMBIA MAKES IT HARDER FOR SMOKERS TO QUIT

Retrieved on: 
Thursday, February 8, 2024
Health policy, Minor, Nicotine, Government, Incidence, Corporation, Health Canada, Smoker, Sale, Smoking, Imperial Tobacco Canada, Tobacco

That said, the company is extremely disappointed that the Government of British Columbia is making it more difficult for smokers to access a product that can help them quit smoking.

Key Points: 
  • That said, the company is extremely disappointed that the Government of British Columbia is making it more difficult for smokers to access a product that can help them quit smoking.
  • "Let me be clear, we agree that kids should not be able to purchase ZONNIC or any product that contains nicotine.
  • It is unfortunate that the Government of British Columbia is making smoking cessation more difficult for adult smokers by limiting the places that ZONNIC can be purchased.
  • "We urge the Government of British Columbia to reconsider this decision immediately as health policy should not be driven by anti-tobacco lobbyists who oppose everything we do," said Mr. Gagnon.

Is your pet exposed to secondhand smoke? Here are the (serious) health risks

Retrieved on: 
Tuesday, February 6, 2024
Smoke, Cancer in dogs, Genetics, Breast, Human, Heart, Bird, Environment, Food, Smoking, Dog, Incidence, Longevity, Lymphoma, Collie, Lung cancer, Diet, Rabbit, Ventilation, Air pollution, Dentistry, Filter (signal processing), Water, Nicotine, Tobacco, Risk, Education, Smoker, Death, Cat, Bladder cancer, Health, Bed, Cancer, Pet, Pollutant

Between 80 and 90% of lung cancer cases are associated with exposure to cancer-causing componds from first-or second-hand smoking.

Key Points: 
  • Between 80 and 90% of lung cancer cases are associated with exposure to cancer-causing componds from first-or second-hand smoking.
  • Children’s oral health, development, and future health outcomes are also negatively affected by exposure to secondhand smoke.
  • Exposure to secondhand smoke is a common but avoidable risk factor for health concerns in pets and people alike.
  • Reducing exposure to secondhand smoke, can enhance overall health, welfare and longevity for both pets and their people.

KEEP AMERICA BEAUTIFUL TO AWARD UP TO $375K IN GRANTS TO COMBAT CIGARETTE LITTER ACROSS THE COUNTRY

Retrieved on: 
Friday, February 2, 2024
Keep America Beautiful, Research, Recycling, Collection, Reynolds American, CLPP, Smoker, Organization, Tobacco

According to the Keep America Beautiful 2020 National Litter Study , cigarette butts are the nation’s single most littered item in the United States and comprise 20% of the litter found on the ground and in waterways.

Key Points: 
  • According to the Keep America Beautiful 2020 National Litter Study , cigarette butts are the nation’s single most littered item in the United States and comprise 20% of the litter found on the ground and in waterways.
  • Additionally, this research shows that smokers are significantly less likely to litter when convenient ash receptacles are available nearby.
  • “The number of cigarette butts found on our streets and within our waterways is alarming,” said Jennifer Lawson, President and CEO of Keep America Beautiful.
  • Information about CLPP grants and other Keep America Beautiful community grants are available here.

Urology Care Foundation Spreads Awareness for National Cancer Prevention Month

Retrieved on: 
Wednesday, January 31, 2024
Education, Ache, Penile cancer, Urethral cancer, Urination, Kidney cancer, Bleeding, Fluid mechanics, Testicular cancer, Heredity, Urethra, Radiation, Back pain, Infection, Bladder cancer, Abdomen, Foreskin, Weight loss, FACS, Fever, Groin, Risk factor, Diet, AUA, Blog, Cancer, HPV, Combustion, Woman, Urethral caruncle, Growth, Papillomaviridae, Prostate cancer, Low back pain, Penis, Urethral diverticulum, Rib, Death, Skin, Blood, Disease, AIDS, Risk, Ejaculation, Smoking, Workplace, UTI, American Urological Association, Male, Scrotum, Pain, Tenderness, MBA, Somatic symptom disorder, Urine, Smoker, GCNIS, Ulcer, Birth control

BALTIMORE, Jan. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- February is National Cancer Prevention Month, and the Urology Care Foundation, the official foundation of the American Urological Association (AUA), wants to spread awareness and information on the six main urologic cancers.

Key Points: 
  • BALTIMORE, Jan. 31, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- February is National Cancer Prevention Month, and the Urology Care Foundation, the official foundation of the American Urological Association (AUA), wants to spread awareness and information on the six main urologic cancers.
  • However, there are other urologic cancers that involve the bladder, kidneys and testicles,” said Urology Care Foundation Board of Directors member Brian McNeil, MD, MBA, FACS.
  • The Urology Care Foundation believes the first part of prevention is education.
  • Below are the six main urologic cancers and important resources for each:
    Bladder Cancer is the second most common type of urologic cancer.

Murray R. Garnick, Executive Vice President & General Counsel, Announces Decision to Retire

Retrieved on: 
Thursday, February 1, 2024
Retail, Professional Services, Tobacco, Legal, Specialty, ABI, Horizon, Family, Senior, General counsel, ALCS, NJOY, PM, Heated tobacco product, FDA, Marketing, Investment, AB InBev, Food, Helix, MST, Smoker, Associate, Health, Arnold & Porter, Private practice

(NYSE: MO) Murray R. Garnick, Executive Vice President & General Counsel of Altria Group, Inc. (Altria), has notified the company of his decision to retire effective April 1, 2024.

Key Points: 
  • (NYSE: MO) Murray R. Garnick, Executive Vice President & General Counsel of Altria Group, Inc. (Altria), has notified the company of his decision to retire effective April 1, 2024.
  • “In addition to Murray’s significant individual contributions, his passion for developing world-class legal and regulatory talent has contributed tremendously to Altria’s success.
  • I am grateful for his many contributions, and I wish him the best in retirement.”
    Robert (Bob) A. McCarter will become Altria’s Executive Vice President & General Counsel effective April 1, 2024.
  • Currently Bob serves as Senior Vice President & Associate General Counsel, ALCS, where he supervises the management of tobacco, health and other litigation.

Milena Trentadue Appointed Managing Director of Rothmans, Benson & Hedges Inc. (RBH)

Retrieved on: 
Thursday, February 1, 2024
Kenneth Michael Trentadue, Philip Morris International, History, RBH, Strategic planning, Region, PMI, Commercial, Female, Smoker, Smoking, Culture, Tobacco

TORONTO, Feb 1, 2024 /CNW/ - Rothmans, Benson & Hedges Inc. (RBH) has appointed Milena Trentadue Managing Director effective February 1, 2024.

Key Points: 
  • TORONTO, Feb 1, 2024 /CNW/ - Rothmans, Benson & Hedges Inc. (RBH) has appointed Milena Trentadue Managing Director effective February 1, 2024.
  • Trentadue succeeds Mindaugas Trumpaitis who is becoming Regional President for Latin America and Canada, Philip Morris International (PMI).
  • Trentadue, the first female to hold this position for RBH, joined the company in 2019 as Director of Commercial Deployment leading the total Canadian commercial operation including sales, distribution and revenue management.
  • Prior to joining RBH, Trentadue spent 20+ years in the consumer goods industry where she excelled at delivering revenue gains through strategic planning.