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ALA study reveals economic costs of smoking

By Staff Writer

A recent study released by the American Lung Association (ALA) discovered that helping smokers kick the habit saves lives and benefits the economy as well. Penn State University researchers conducted the study titled Smoking Cessation: the Economic Benefits, which compared the costs of the addiction with the benefits states reaped for helping individuals quit through education and better access to drug treatment centers. Nicotine, a key component in cigarettes, is a highly addictive substance and can lead individuals to become hooked after just one pack.

Tobacco use kills nearly 393,000 Americans every year, and according to the study released by the ALA, smoking costs the U.S. economy $301 billion a year. This number includes premature deaths, which are estimated to cost around $117 billion, and $116 billion in direct medical expenses.

"This study spells out in dollars and cents the great potential economic benefits to states of helping smokers quit," said ALA president and CEO Charles Connor. "We urge the District of Columbia and all states to offer full coverage of clinically proven cessation treatments for smokers, which will not only save lives but also money."

The ALA is encouraging states to work harder to educate Americans on the benefits of kicking the habit. Nicotine patches and chewing gum are popular methods smokers can use to recover from their addiction. Drug addiction treatment centers may also offer patients healthier alternatives to smoking.