Smoking and Nonsmokers — What Is the Issue?

Abstract

With tobacco consumption near an all-time high, a fervent interest has developed over the effect of passive smoke inhalation on the nonsmoker. Controversy exists on the rights of the nonsmoker to "clean" air versus the rights of the smoker to enjoy a product consumed by man for centuries. This issue extends far beyond the health professions and is complicated by the divergent interests of many groups, with approximately 160 proposals to restrict or segregate the smoker now pending before legislatures in 39 states. The primary issue is how much tobacco the nonsmoker passively inhales and what the potential health hazards . . .