werner@aecom.UUCP (Craig Werner) (11/21/85)
Concerning the complaint that disseminating the dangers of smoking does
not help smokers quit.
The evidence supports the opposite.
Back in the early 1970s, Anti-smoking advertisements on TV were so
effective that the tobacco companies voluntarily withdrew their TV ads in
exchange for banning the Equal-time ads by the American Heart and Lung
Association (Most netters should be old enough to remember the slogan, "It's
a matter of Life and Breath.") The voluntary agreement was subsequently
written into legislation. TV ads for cigarettes were not banned, they
were voluntarily withdrawn by the cigarette companies, because it was seen
in their best interests.
[As for the net, I've exhausted what I have to say about the dangers
of smoking. But once again, if you smoke and want to quit, go see your doctor.
There are many excellent programs to help you kick the habit -- with support,
not nagging. November 21 is The Great American Smokeout. It's a good day to
pick up the phone and make an appointment.]
--
Craig Werner
!philabs!aecom!werner
"Why is it that half the calories is twice the price?"