AMA (NSW) President: small changes can yield big health results
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August 7, 2015AMA (NSW) Vice President, Prof Brad Frankum, says he is pleased to see the commencement of smoke free outdoor dining around the state.
“This is an excellent day for NSW, with diners now assured of smoke free dining at cafes and restaurants whether they choose to eat inside or outside.
“Smoking is not just a health hazard for the smokers themselves but also for the people around them through second hand smoke.
“The new smoke free laws will make outdoor dining a healthier environment, for both customers and their children, as well as café and restaurant staff,” Prof Frankum said.
“Cigarettes are very addictive and cause serious harm to smokers and those around them in a number of ways.
“They cause increased risk of cardio-vascular disease – including heart attack and stroke, they are a leading cause of lung and other cancers, as well as other respiratory conditions.
“I’m very happy the NSW Government’s legislation banning smoking in outdoor dining areas has come into effect,” Prof Frankum said.
“It is this sort of Government commitment to tobacco control that has seen NSW never win the AMA Dirty Ashtray Award in its 20 year history.
“Each year, the AMA presents the unwanted award to the state or territory that has done the least to curb smoking,” Prof Frankum said.
“Quitting smoking lowers your risk of developing serious diseases like cancer, compared to people who continue to smoke.
“The longer you go without smoking, the more the risk diminishes.
“I hope that the commencement of the smoke free outdoor dining laws helps convince more people to stop smoking and live healthier lives,” Prof Frankum said.
Media contact: Lachlan Jones (02) 9902 8113 / 0419 402 955