NEA should stub out smoking at all eateries

Why is smoking banned in hawker centres, but not in coffee shops?

A demarcated smoking area in a coffee shop is redundant. Keeping smokers in a designated area does not mean the smoke will stay within it, too.

Patrons who sit near the demarcated area can still fall victim to second-hand smoke while trying to enjoy their meal.

The effects of inhaling second-hand smoke can be as detrimental as those of smoking itself.

Statistics show that non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke increase their lung cancer risk by 20 to 30 per cent and their heart disease risk by 25 to 30 per cent.

Allowing demarcated smoking areas in coffee shops can still hurt the patrons, especially children who are exposed to second-hand smoke from smokers who light up without any consideration.

The National Environment Agency should put an end to smoking at all eateries.