Tran Thanh Tung, Deputy Director of the Vietnam Tobacco Control Fund (Ministry of Health), emphasized the need for action at the second "Exemplary Smoke-Free Hotel" ranking launch ceremony on 22/9. He stated, "The prevalence of secondhand smoke exposure in hotels means that accommodation and dining environments continue to be categorized as areas requiring enhanced smoke-free solutions to protect guests and employees who regularly work here." The event was organized by the Fund in collaboration with Van Hoa newspaper.

In 2020, approximately 65% of individuals experienced smoke exposure in hotels, with 80% in restaurants. While secondhand smoke exposure in these venues has since improved, they still report relatively high exposure rates.

The Ministry of Health reports that tobacco imposes a significant burden of disease, premature death, and economic costs in Vietnam. Annually, tobacco is estimated to cause over 100,000 deaths and economic losses of approximately 108,000 billion VND, equivalent to 1,1% of the country's GDP.

Tobacco smoke contains over 7,000 chemical substances, including at least 70 known carcinogens. This is a primary cause of many serious diseases such as lung cancer, cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, infertility, and various other incurable illnesses.

Under the Law on Tobacco Harm Prevention and Control, hotels and tourist accommodations are designated as indoor smoke-free zones. While separate smoking areas are permitted, they must include distinct rooms, dedicated ventilation systems, ashtrays, appropriate signage, and fire safety equipment. The law encourages managers of hotels and accommodation facilities to establish completely smoke-free indoor environments, thereby gradually fostering smoke-free lodging spaces.

In practice, many hotels enforce no-smoking policies, display appropriate signage, and provide information and guidance to guests. Some establishments assign staff to remind guests and monitor compliance, ensuring the maintenance of a smoke-free environment.

Tobacco is known to contain many harmful substances that impact health. Photo: Unsplash

Tobacco is known to contain many harmful substances that impact health. Photo: Unsplash

During the launch ceremony, Mr. Tung called on hotels and restaurants to expand the smoke-free environment model throughout the service and tourism industry. This initiative aims to encourage smokers to reduce or quit their habit, contributing to a decrease in tobacco-related diseases.

Hotels recognized as "Exemplary Smoke-Free Hotels" must consistently uphold their committed criteria for a minimum of one year. Failure to provide accurate registration information or maintain the required standards may lead to a review of the hotel's ranking, revocation of results, or withdrawal of the title.

Le Nga