After Tobacco

Optimistically assuming that state and federal legislators might take the time to read a collection of evidence-based essays on a single topic, Bearman (social sciences, Columbia Univ.), Kathryn M. Neckerman (research assoc., medicine, Univ. of Chicago), and Leslie Wright (former project coordinator, Ctr. of Excellence in Women's Health, Boston Univ.) present a look at the potential consequences of a substantial reduction of smoking in the United States. Three scenarios are considered: no policy changes, stricter interventions recommended by the Institute of Medicine, and more draconian measures. All of the researchers used the same simulation tool and the same format for the resulting essays, and each also includes a section on statistical methods clearly not intended for the casual reader. Studied for possible economic and social impact are tobacco farmers and those working in cigarette manufacturing as well as their surrounding communities, retailers, the hospitality industry, and tobacco company philanthropy. Contributors also consider the effect of increased longevity on health expenditures and the Social Security Trust Fund and potential disruptions for smokers with mental illness or addictions.