Submitted by Don Crask (see contact information below)
When considering public health issues, I try to be able to put the issue in terms of risk and risk management.
I wish to list those questions and my assessment of the Smoke-free issue. (SHS=Secondhand Smoke)
Question 1: Is it a hazard? Reliable reviewed scientific findings by the CDC, EPA, and the AMA indicates that SHS is a major health hazard.
Question 2: How large a hazard is it? The CDC indicates that SHS exposure is the third leading cause of preventable death.
Question 3: What can be done about the hazard? An environmental strategy that involves large populations and promotes removing SHS from the air is the recommended methodology. Continuing education about the dangers of SHS should accompany the separation of smoke from large populations. Smoke-Free ordinances that protect all individual in public places and workplaces provide the needed level of protection.
Question 4: What are going to be the societal effects? Questions of personal and business rights will be pitted against the interest of public health causing much public discussion and uncertainty about the change. Comments concerning change that involves traditions will attempt to move the discussion away from the undisputable health facts and remedy appropriateness.
All in all, the precedents invoking the inherent legal rights of the public and defined public health role in these matters overwhelm any perceived infringement of personal and business rights. With the passage of time and the acceptance of public authority in this area, the health of the community will be advanced. This will be seen as a watershed event in the history of Daviess County.
Don Crask
Tobacco Control Coordinator
Green River District Health Dept.
1501 Breckenridge Street
Owensboro, Ky. 42303
270-686-7747, extension 5617
