Gates Foundation helping push for healthful cultural revolution in nation that smokes one-third of the world's cigarettes.
Jump to full article: Seattle (WA) Times, 2008-08-19
Author: Kristi Heim Seattle Times staff reporter
Intro: "Love China," says a message on the screen. "Increase patriotism even more. Love a smoke-free Olympics."
That public-service advertisement was funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, targeting TV viewers in China during the Olympics. It's part of a new initiative to cut tobacco use in the country that's home to 350 million smokers and more than a third of the world's cigarette production. . . .
In Beijing, a new government directive went into effect May 1 that bans smoking in most indoor areas, such as schools, hospitals, movie theaters and gyms, as well as on public transportation. The directive was intended to ensure a "smoke-free Olympics" but will remain in effect after the Games are over. . . .
China doesn't have a national law banning smoking in public places, but more than 150 local governments have instituted smoking bans. Many local bans passed in the 1990s are now being revised and strengthened.
How well the new policy is working in Beijing depends on where you go.
Corinne Leuenberger, a Swiss translator, stopped for a smoking break in a designated area near the Olympic Green. She said she hasn't seen much of a smoke-free Olympics at all, and no change in the amount of smoking in Beijing's popular bars and restaurants. . . .
National law bans cigarette sales to minors, but enforcement is weak and there's no stated penalty for violations. Cigarettes are sold almost everywhere. Smoking is so much a part of dining culture in China that cigarettes are frequently on restaurant menus. . . .
More than 32 percent of young people between the ages of 13 and 18 in China have tried smoking, and 11 percent are currently smokers, according to the 2008 China Tobacco Control Report.
The report blames exposure to tobacco advertising and images of smoking in movies and TV programs, as well as easy access to tobacco products, for drawing in young people.
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Quotes from this article:
2008: our heroic year. You can also become our hero. To protect our loved ones, please smoke outside.
TV ad in China, from the Gates Foundation.
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