Casinos have long been the last public stronghold for smokers, but a recently implemented temporary smoking ban appears to be changing that. As a result of COVID-19, several casinos have implemented temporary smoking bans, which we believe is the best course of action for all parties involved. It is a common misconception that exposure to secondhand smoke has no effect on people who do not smoke themselves. This, however, is not the case. Each year, it is estimated that secondhand smoke causes thousands of deaths and costs the public health system millions of dollars. As a result of this, our communities are in jeopardy.
Let’s take a closer look at this temporary smoking ban in casinos and look into the potential benefits it may offer. The decision was made in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and to protect those who do not smoke from the dangers of second-hand smoke exposure. Because COVID-19 causes respiratory problems, smoking can increase the victim’s chances of developing respiratory complications.
A lower risk of secondhand smoke exposure
Let’s face the issue of secondhand smoke head on and dispel the myth that it isn’t harmful by debunking some of the myths about it. Second-hand smoke is a lethal toxin that can cause many of the same health problems as first-hand smokers, according to the Cleveland Clinic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Lung.org, Cancer.org, and a number of studies published in the National Library of Medicine.
Secondhand smoke increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, lung cancer and disease, hypertension, and other conditions, according to research. As a result, thousands of people die each year as a result of the effects of secondhand smoke-related conditions. Smoking has been largely prohibited in public places across the country for reasons other than the creation of a foul odor; the reasons for this go much deeper.
It’s possible that casinos banned smoking in response to COVID-19, but we can still hope that the ban will be enforced in the future. Indoor smoking has no effect other than to exacerbate the negative health effects of secondhand smoke. There is no reason to continue smoking now that substitute products such as tobacco-free chew (like the kind sold on https://blackbuffalo.com/), vape pens, CBD, and herbal cigarettes are now available.
COVID-19 and smoking
Coronaviruses, such as COVID-19, are named after the crown-like shape of their capsids (the prefix “Corona” means “crown”). This virus can cause respiratory disease and complications, and those with compromised immune systems or who already have a respiratory illness are more likely to get sick from it. However, a person who is otherwise in good health may still develop complications as a result of the virus.
Smokers are at a higher risk than nonsmokers because smoking weakens both the immune system and the respiratory system. Because of the chemicals in cigarettes, the lungs, red blood cells, and blood vessels all become coated with a film. This makes it difficult to deliver fresh, clean oxygen to the organs and tissues, making the heart work even harder to perform daily activities. When you breathe in toxic chemicals, you not only put your body on constant defense, but you also make it difficult for your body to fight even minor infections. This is because your body is constantly defending itself.
A healthier and more sanitary environment
Smoking has the potential to damage surfaces, stain upholstery, and generally lower the quality of the air inside a building or in a general area. As a result of the temporary casino ban, the environment has unquestionably become cleaner. After all, who wants to be inside a business that smells like old cigarettes that have lingering odors?
Even if smokers are restricted to a specific outdoor area, cigarette butts remain the most common type of litter found worldwide. They are responsible for millions of tons of litter each year. This is an upsetting fact, and cigarette butts on the ground are undeniably unsightly.
However, they are also a threat to the ecosystems and waterways in the area. The thousands of chemicals found in cigarettes continue to leach into the ground and waterways, where they affect flora and fauna. This kind of irresponsibility is harmful not only to other species, but also to the one and only planet we have to call home.
Increased Business
Casinos will almost certainly see an increase in foot traffic and revenue as a result of a smoking ban. It’s important to respect people’s rights to individual liberty, but if you also show concern for the general public’s well-being, you’ll likely see an increase in the number of customers you serve. Given that passive smoking is harmful to public health, casinos that allow smoking may be endangering the health of their patrons.
Simply put, a smoke-free and well-kept casino provides a better overall experience. You can play games like Blackjack and Craps without having to deal with the lingering odor of cigarettes, the cluttered appearance of cigarette litter, or the risk of developing health problems.
Increased sensitivity
When it comes to the dangers of smoking, there is no such thing as too much information. A smoking ban in casinos helps to shed light on a global issue that has gone unnoticed for far too long. Knowledge will help to reduce the smoking problem, as will a ban on smoking in casinos. Despite widespread knowledge of the dangers of smoking, millions of people continue to practice the habit. COVID-19 could be the catalyst we need to address the smoking problem in the UK; it has already helped approximately one million people in the United Kingdom quit smoking.
We can only hope that this pandemic inspires widespread societal change for the betterment of our civilization. Casinos have more power to affect positive change than they may realize, and we can only hope that this pandemic helps them realize it.