Burma to campaign against betel nuts chewing

YANGON: The National League of Democracy government is taking a bold move aimed at one of Burma’s iconic habits –chewing betel nuts.

The Government Office announced Friday that selling betel nuts in or near hospital, schools and government offices would be banned, reported the Irrawaddy.

“Many people across the country chew betel nuts which is one of Burma’s customs. This harms the appearance of government offices, schools, hospitals and towns and also causes mouth, throat and tongue cancers,” said the statement.

“We have therefore sought recommendations about how to reduce and get rid of betel chewing as well as providing alternative livelihoods for betel sellers,” the statement added.

However, details are not available about how the restriction will be enforced and how far from the buildings the ban will be in effect.

Nevertheless, the government will educate the people on the health hazards posed by betel nuts through TV, newspapers and online campaign and will take action against sellers in the off-limits premises.

Source: http://englishnews.thaipbs.or.th/content/165162

-- Thai PBS 2016-05-29

Not just chewing, but spitting !!!! horrible ?

Many people across the country chew betel nuts which is one of Burmas customs. This harms the appearance of government offices, schools, hospitals and towns and also causes mouth, throat and tongue cancers, said the statement.

But it makes the user feel a rush, warm-headed sometimes dizzy feeling. Never any mention of why it became a custom.

Thai custom as well.