【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. alternative /ɔlˈtɜr nə tɪv, æl-/ (n.) – a substitute for something
Example: One effective alternative to smoking is chewing bubble gum.
2. emit /ɪˈmɪt/ (v.) – to release something
Example: Factories usually emit harmful gases into the atmosphere.
3. restricted /rɪˈstrɪk tɪd/ (adj.) – having limited access to something
Example: The party is restricted only to college students.
4. toxin /ˈtɒk sɪn/ (n.) – a poisonous substance produced by a living organism
Example: Secondhand smokers inhale harmful toxins from chain smokers.
5. minimal /ˈmɪn ə məl/ (adj.) – very small in quantity or degree
Example: Tea contains minimal amount of caffeine.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
In celebration of the World No Tobacco Day, a group of medical experts appealed to the World Health Organization (WHO) to classify e-cigarettes as a lifesaver.
Experts describe e-cigarettes as possibly “the most significant health innovation of the 21st century.” This electronic alternative can help prevent lung diseases brought by traditional cigarettes, experts added.
E-cigarettes are battery-operated devices that emit a fraction of nicotine in the form of vapor and not smoke. Despite being a safer option for smokers, some countries like Brazil and Singapore have banned the use of this cigarette alternative. In Ireland, the sale of e-cigarette is restricted to those who are below 18. It cannot also be sold in the Irish Rail services.
Experts worry that e-cigarettes may fall under the WHO’s tobacco policy. This may cause some countries to ban e-cigarette advertisements and to impose sin taxes. That is why specialists urge WHO for courageous leadership in guiding global and national approaches to e-cigarettes.
Addiction specialist Gerry Stimson said that people smoke for nicotine but they die of tar – a sticky brown substance left behind from burning toxins in cigarettes. If these two chemicals are removed from cigarettes, then people could still enjoy smoking without experiencing its harmful effects. He also added that e-cigarettes contain very minimal amount of toxins compared with real cigarettes.
On another note, WHO is still weighing its position on the issue. The organization is currently making regulations on e-cigarettes, which are scheduled to be discussed in a meeting with government members.
However, some people are concerned about making e-cigarettes legal, as they are thinking that it might encourage non-smokers to get hooked on smoking.
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【Viewpoint Discussion】
ディスカッションテーマ
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
· Do you think it is fine to legalize the use of e-cigarette in many countries? Why or why not?
· What can be the impact of the popularity of e-cigarettes to the tobacco industry? Kindly explain your answer.
Discussion B
· Why do you think people like smoking? Explain your answer.
· How can one quit the habit of smoking?