Bangkok: Department of Disease Control Remind people to abide by the law prohibiting smoking in public places. Especially in hospitals and all types of medical facilities This is because the law requires it to be a non-smoking area. If found to be in violation of smoking, there is a fine of up to 5,000 baht. Dr. Thongchai Keerati Hatthayakorn Director-General of the Department of Disease Control said that all hospitals, nursing homes, public health and health promotion centers The entire area has been designated as a non-smoking area. Whether inside or outside the building or buildings The area provided People who receive services use it together. Including within 5 meters from the entrance - exit of the place. This is in accordance with the announcement of the Ministry of Public Health regarding specifying the type or name of public places, workplaces, and vehicles to make any part or all of the places and vehicles a non-smoking area or a smoking area in a non-smoking area, B.E. . 2018, if there is smoking Electronic cigarettes in hospitals It will be a violation to smoke in a non-smoking zone. According to the Tobacco Products Control Act 2017, Section 42, which is punishable by a fine not exceeding 5,000 baht. Dr. Thongchai Added that For this reason it is important to impose a ban on smoking in public places. Because smoking besides having an effect on the smoker himself Cigarette smoke that was puffed out It also affects people around you who do not smoke but inhale that cigarette smoke, which is called second-hand smoke. Those who are exposed to secondhand smoke can also be affected by health, such as an increased risk of cancer. Especially lung cancer. There is also a risk of cardiovascular disease. Cerebral hemorrhage Emphysema and asthma, etc. According to the World Health Organization, it was found that each year around the world an average of 8 million people die from cigarette smoking, of which approximately 1.2 million people die from exposure. Secondhand smoke In Thailand, it was found that Exposu re to secondhand smoke causes Thai people to lose more than 600,000 healthy years, accounting for 3.5% of all lost healthy years. The Department of Disease Control would like to emphasize this to the public, especially smokers. The law should be strictly followed. Do not smoke in non-smoking zones. To protect the health of others and those around you. and for citizens who witness violations of smoking and e-cigarettes in non-smoking areas Complaints and clues can be reported at the Department of Disease Control hotline 1422. If you have questions about compliance with the Tobacco Product Control Act B.E. 2017, you can ask for additional information at Tobacco Product Control Committee Division, Department of Disease Control, Tel. 0 2590 3852 Source: Thai News Agency