Implementing comprehensive nationwide smoke-free legislation in China

Abstract

Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death globally, accounting for more than 7 million deaths worldwide, including nearly 1·3 million deaths due to second-hand smoke.¹ There is no safe threshold of exposure to second-hand smoke, and smoke-free environments are a proven way to adequately protect people from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke without harming businesses.² Legislation is required to effectively implement smoke-free environments.² Systematic reviews have shown that smoke-free legislation is associated with substantial reductions in morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular disease, respiratory system disease, and perinatal outcomes.³