37% of men admit to smoking a cigarette on a daily basis. For women the proportion is 10%. (AMPS2009A)
This week’s theme: Health in South Africa
Related facts:
- ChEATers 2.4 million South African adults claim to be on diet on...
- All the kings' men 36% of men smoke at least one cigarette per day. 10%...
So why do so many people smoke when they know it’s bad for them? It’s the same reason people don’t use condoms – the bad effects are way in the future. People live for today. Compare these examples with motor-cyclists. When last did you see a motor-cyclist riding without a helmet? They know their next ride might be their last, and take precautions.
The comparisons you make are misleading.
A regulation in the National Road Traffic Act of South Africa makes it illegal to ride without a protective helmet. A recent study done by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in the U.S. found that use of helmets rose from around 50% to nearly 100% when a helmet law was enforced.
Enforce stricter smoking laws in this country and let’s see what the consequences are then.