Core Viewpoint - Smoking is a significant public health issue that not only affects the lungs and heart but also damages vision, a fact that is not widely recognized [1][8]. Group 1: Impact of Smoking on Vision - A survey indicated that while 76% of adults are aware of the link between smoking and cancer, only 18% know that smoking can harm vision [8]. - Research has shown a correlation between smoking and various eye diseases, particularly age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts, with significant vision impairment reported among older adults [8][10]. - Chemicals in cigarette smoke, including nearly 7,000 compounds, can lead to oxidative damage to retinal cells, contributing to vision loss [10][12]. Group 2: Mechanisms of Damage - Studies have demonstrated that exposure to cigarette smoke can cause corneal cell death due to the accumulation of iron and the generation of free radicals [12][14]. - Even indirect exposure to secondhand smoke can lead to corneal cell death, highlighting the risks associated with passive smoking [12][14]. - The presence of heavy metals in cigarette smoke, such as cadmium and lead, has been linked to higher concentrations in the lenses of cataract patients [10]. Group 3: Risks to Children and E-Cigarettes - Children exposed to secondhand smoke are at risk of thinner choroids, which can affect their vision health [14][16]. - E-cigarettes have also been associated with increased risks of vision problems, with a study indicating a 34% higher likelihood of vision impairment among e-cigarette users [16][19].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ongoing public debate surrounding smoking in public places in China, highlighting the conflict between smokers and non-smokers, and the challenges faced in enforcing smoking bans despite existing regulations [2][3][5]. Group 1: Public Smoking Regulations - Many cities in China have implemented indoor smoking regulations, but there remains a significant gap between the laws and their enforcement [3][43]. - Smokers often disregard these regulations, viewing smoking in public as their right, leading to confrontations with non-smokers [7][19]. - The presence of smoking in various public spaces, such as shopping malls and train stations, indicates a broader societal issue regarding smoking culture and compliance with laws [20][21]. Group 2: Personal Experiences and Activism - Individuals like Suqi have taken on the role of anti-smoking advocates, documenting their experiences with secondhand smoke and the challenges of confronting smokers [8][10]. - Activists often face hostility when attempting to enforce smoking bans, with some reporting aggressive reactions from smokers [14][15]. - The article highlights the emotional and physical toll that secondhand smoke takes on non-smokers, prompting some to become vocal advocates for stricter enforcement of smoking bans [6][8]. Group 3: Business Owners' Challenges - Business owners, such as Sam, face difficulties in enforcing smoking bans in their establishments, often receiving negative feedback from customers who disregard these rules [32][49]. - Despite having clear signage and policies against smoking, many businesses struggle to maintain a smoke-free environment due to customer resistance [36][50]. - The article illustrates the tension between maintaining a profitable business and enforcing health regulations, with many owners feeling powerless against smoking patrons [44][50].

Core Points - Recent news highlights the dangers of secondhand smoke, with cases of lung cancer in non-smokers drawing public attention [1][2] - The prevalence of secondhand smoke exposure in various environments, including workplaces and public transport, is a significant concern [1] Group 1: Dangers of Secondhand Smoke - Secondhand smoke contains over 69 carcinogens, with nitrosamines being 50 times more potent than those in firsthand smoke [4] - Annually, smoking-related diseases cause over 1 million deaths, with more than 100,000 deaths attributed to secondhand smoke exposure [4] - 60%-80% of carcinogens in secondhand smoke can adhere to surfaces, leading to thirdhand smoke that can persist for days to years [4] Group 2: Vulnerable Populations - Children are particularly at risk due to their higher respiratory rates, leading to greater exposure to secondhand smoke [7] - Secondhand smoke can trigger asthma, pneumonia, leukemia, and increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome [8] - Pregnant women exposed to secondhand smoke face risks of miscarriage, premature birth, and increased chances of birth defects [9] - Elderly individuals and those with chronic diseases may experience worsened conditions, including accelerated lung function decline and increased mortality risk [10] Group 3: Environmental Impact - The diffusion range of secondhand smoke can exceed 9 meters, making it difficult to avoid in shared spaces [14] - Smoking indoors can lead to PM2.5 levels remaining elevated for over 16 hours, even with ventilation [15] - Pets exposed to secondhand smoke have a significantly increased risk of cancer [15] Group 4: Mitigation Strategies - Recommendations include encouraging smokers to refrain from smoking in shared spaces and using designated smoking areas [17] - Individuals should maintain distance from smokers and take measures to ventilate spaces after exposure [18] - Wearing masks can help reduce the inhalation of secondhand smoke, which can cause immediate spikes in PM2.5 levels [18]