Dr. Edruw

Overall, women, nonsmokers, and people under age 60 seem to benefit the most in regard to heart-attack-risk reduction, Dr. Meyers says. Many of those affected are employees in places where smoking is still allowed, he says.

“I feel very sorry for the hospitality and entertainment industry workers, because that’s exactly who those folks are,” Dr. Meyers explains. “They are really getting exposed.”

Opponents have argued that smoking bans drive away customers. Study results have been mixed, with most indicating that the impact on bars and restaurants is neutral or may actually improve business, says Dr. Schroeder. However, some businesses, particularly casinos, are still concerned that smoking bans may cause their customers to choose locations that will allow them to light up freely.

“The New Jersey state legislature recently revoked a ban because business was down in casinos—but business is down everywhere,” Dr. Schroeder says.

Such arguments suggest that a nationwide ban on smoking in public places and workplaces—similar to those enacted in countries like France and Italy—could help level the playing field, says Dr. Meyers.

Either way, both experts agree that the studies seem to show there are real health benefits of smoking bans, and that secondhand smoke may be curtailed even further as time goes on.

“I used to fly on airplanes where anyone could smoke, then it was only certain sections, says Dr. Schroeder. Now if smokers were allowed to light up on a plane, “people would be shocked,” says Dr. Schroeder. “Certainly airplane travel hasn’t decreased; this is the same type of situation.”


Tobacco Smoke Effects Neutralization

0 Responses

Posting Komentar