World Lung Cancer Day: "Creating a non-smoking environment"

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Source: CCTV.com | 11-18-2007 11:03

November 17th marked World Lung Cancer Day. Since smoking is the major cause of lung cancer, the theme this year is "creating a non-smoking environment".

Lung Cancer is infamous as the deadliest of all cancers. And the number of patients is growing year by year.

Wang Yang, doctor Chao Yang hospital, said, "Our hospital receives 400 to 500 lung cancer patients each year, and the number is increasing by 10% a year."

There are many causes for lung cancer, including harmful emissions and substances in fried food. But nearly 90% of lung cancers are caused by smoking.

China has the biggest smoking population in the world, and a much bigger population of secondhand smokers, who may also become victims of tobacco.

Beijing resident, said, "I smoke, and people around me smoke."

Another resident, said, "My father smokes, we can't do anything about it."

Another resident, said, "You can't just stay away from friends who smoke."

There is now some movement in China towards creating a non-smoking environment in public places. And clinics are opening to help people quit. But progress can be slow.

Wang Yang said, "It took a lot of time and effort to set up this clinic, but few patients come to us, so we only open half a day a week."

It is no easy thing to persuade people to kick the habit. But maybe activities like World Lung Cancer day might at least make people think twice before lighting another cigarette.

Editor:Du Xiaodan