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Singapore Smokers Unconcerned About Negative Health Impact of Smoking to Others Around Them

• Pfizer’s poll shows more than half of smokers polled admitted they don’t observe anti-smoking laws in Singapore
• More than half of non–smokers polled were unaware of the harm caused by third-hand smoke; once aware, 9 in 10 respondents were concerned about its impact and keen to help loved ones quit smoking

Singapore, 26 May 2011 - A recent Singapore poll comprising 450 smokers and non smokers combined shows that smokers are unconcerned about the negative health impact of smoking to others around them. Of the 243 smokers polled, almost all (97.1%) were aware of the harms of secondhand smoke to others, yet most (58.8%) continued to smoke in front of their friends and family who don’t smoke.

In addition, the Pfizer commissioned poll found that more than half (55.6%) admitted that they did not always adhere to the law that restricts them from smoking within 5 meters of entrances and exits of buildings.

While unconcerned by the trail and impact of secondhand smoke they leave behind, the smokers polled admitted that they were self-conscious about the odour left behind by smoking. Of those bothered by the smell, more women (79.6%) tried to mask the smell as compared to men (57.1%). The most common method employed to mask the smell was by spraying on some perfume after smoking.

Though the stench of cigarettes may be hidden, the people with whom smokers subsequently interact could still be at risk from the ills of smoking. Dr KC Ong, Consultant Respiratory Physician at KC Ong Chest & Medical Clinic explains that, “Even after the smoke has cleared and smokers have successfully masked the cigarette smell, there is still toxic residue from cigarette smoke that clings to skin, hair and clothes, and in the carpeting and curtains of their homes- this phenomenon is known as third-hand smoke.”

Third-hand smoke

Third-hand smoke, or the smoke made up of toxic airborne particles that remain on a smoker’s skin and the environment after smoking, is especially harmful to babies and children who are more likely to touch the contaminated surfaces and bring them in contact with their mouths. Third-hand smoke poses a health hazard though dermal exposure, dust inhalation and ingestion.¹ Among the 207 non-smokers polled, more than half (53.6%) were not aware of third-hand smoke. After being told of third-hand smoke and its effects, almost all (94.2%) were concerned about its effects on them and their loved ones. 95.7% also expressed their interest in helping their loved ones quit smoking.

Dr Ong explains, “The only way to be completely safe from the harms of secondhand and third-hand smoke is to be in a smoke free environment and for smokers to quit smoking completely. Some of the more effective smoking cessation methods include nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and smoking cessation drugs. These quit aids are meant to reduce withdrawal symptoms and are more effective in helping someone quit smoking.”

“In addition, the success rate of quitting the habit using a smoking cessation drug, such as varenicline, has been proven to be higher than by using NRT or by quitting without aids. Those willing to quit should consult a doctor to find the most suitable quit aid for them,” says Dr Ong.

The effects of smoking on pets

Second and third-hand smoke is also detrimental to household pets such as cats and dogs posing a great health hazard to them – something most of smokers polled were unaware of. Studies have even shown that second hand smoke may increase the risk of malignant lymphoma in cats.² Two out 5 smokers polled had admitted to smoking in front of a pet and amongst smokers who own pets, just under half expressed concern if someone were to smoke near their own pet.

The poll also uncovered that the high cost of smoking left smokers unfazed, as 78.6% would continue to buy cigarettes even if a higher tax was imposed on the already costly habit. Almost 1 in 4 smokers polled had previously been fined for smoking related offences such as littering of cigarette buds or bringing duty unpaid cigarettes into the country.

– Ends –

NOTES TO EDITOR:

About varenicline

• Varenicline is the first in a new investigational class of drugs called selective nicotine acetylcholine receptor partial agonists.
• It is the first non-nicotine drug designed specifically for smoking cessation.
• Varenicline works at the same receptor in the brain as nicotine; it stimulates the receptor to release dopamine which helps to relieve the craving and withdrawal symptoms associated with stopping smoking.
• At the same time varenicline blocks nicotine from working at the receptor, so if the smoker slips and smokes a cigarette, varenicline has the potential to diminish the sense of pleasure associated with smoking.

Pfizer (Singapore): Working together for a healthier world™

At Pfizer, we apply science and our global resources to improve health and well-being at every stage of life. We strive to set the standard for quality, safety and value in the discovery, development and manufacturing of medicines for people. Our diversified global health care portfolio includes human biologic and small molecule medicines and vaccines, as well as nutritional products and many of the world’s best-known consumer products. Every day, Pfizer colleagues work across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments and cures that challenge the most feared diseases of our time. Consistent with our responsibility as the world’s leading biopharmaceutical company, we also collaborate with health care providers, governments and local communities to support and expand access to reliable, affordable health care in Singapore. To learn more about our commitments, please visit us at www.pfizer.com.sg  

1. M. Sleiman et al, Formation of carcinogens indoors by surface-mediated reactions of nicotine with nitrous acid, leading to potential thirdhand smoke hazards, http://www.pnas.org/content/early/2010/02/04/0912820107.short?rss=1&ssource=mfc Jan 2010, Retrieved 17-05-11.
2. Bertone, E.R.; Snyder, L.A.; Moore, A.S., "Environmental tobacco smoke and risk of malignant lymphoma in pet cats," American Journal of Epidemiology 156(3): 268-273, 2002.