Reader comments
Utah snuffing smoking

Paul | 5:51 a.m. Sept. 29, 2007

It's too bad other states have not been so successful. Higher taxes, smoking restrictions, getting across the message about the health impact of smoking, and pushing smoking cessation programs is what makes some states more successful than others. With smoking being the biggest cause of ill health and premature death, all states should increase their efforts to reduce their smoking rates. It really is very important to the overall health of each state and to the country.

Mark | 7:49 a.m. Sept. 29, 2007

"Utah's numbers are due in part to the strong social norm against using tobacco..."

Is that a reference to the national norm, or a coded reference to the LDS church's strong stance against smoking? If the latter, it's unfortunate the writer didn't want to clearly state the influence the Mormon church has on smoking rates.

Ken Baguley | 8:35 a.m. Sept. 29, 2007

When I went into police work, 80% of the cops smoked. When I left 80% didn't smoke...Now the city of Buena Park, California wont hire you if you smoke...Quite a change...But that was from 1958 through 1988 and then to now...

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drew | 11:50 a.m. Sept. 29, 2007

too bad utah has one of the highest perscription usage in the united states. and once had the highest meth use.

Harry Littell | 11:58 a.m. Sept. 29, 2007

It is a shame that Utah does not follow California's lead in anti-smoking efforts, restricting exposure to second hand smoke, and in labeling it as a toxic substance. Second hand smoke is far more threatening than what occurs to a smoker and in California is considered a violation of a non-smoker's rights--smoker's do not have the right to pollute someone else's air or destroy their health. It is not a matter of some sort of shared inherited social guilt that comes from having to still justify casting the last vote for ending Prohibition. It is a matter of public saftey, kindness, and consideration of others.

Trevor | 12:02 p.m. Sept. 29, 2007

I wonder where Utah ranks in toxin spewing SUVs- which is just as bad as smoking. Filling a Ford Excursion with kids will land you a spot in heaven, but we all know where smokers go.

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