Channel NewsAsia - Friday, May
30
SINGAPORE: Most people know that smoking can cause stroke and
diseases such as lung and throat cancers, but many are unaware that
taking that puff can also cause blindness.
This is according to the first cross—cultural survey between
Singapore’s Alexandra Hospital and Scotland’s Ninewell Hospital,
which polled over 200 respondents in the two countries.
While more than eight in ten are aware of the more common
diseases afflicting smokers, only about three in ten regard
blindness as a smoking—related condition.
The fact is, experts say, smoking increases the risk of
age—related deterioration of the retina by four times and triples
the risk for cataract clouding.
The study also showed that graphic warning labels on cigarette
packs may just be the extra push needed to get smokers to stub it
out.
Eight in ten Singaporeans either felt fearful or disgusted when
shown the images.
Only about a quarter of respondents from both countries said the
labels will have no effect in getting them to stop smoking.
Alexandra Hospital said it is in talks with the Health Promotion
Board to include on cigarette packs a warning on the risk of
blindness. — CNA/ir