January 20, 2004

The Sun Times

Letter to the Editor

290 9^th Street East

Box 200

Owen Sound ON N4K 5P2

Dear Editor, 

RE: Article Jan. 15, 2004 – Judgment reserved in smoking bylaw “test case”

The recent court case concerning the provision of smoking rooms in a care facility for our elderly citizens troubles me; it seems to ignore the reason why Public Health is trying to reduce exposure to cigarette smoke.  Smoking is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in Canada.  In fact, smoking is still the leading preventable cause of death in North America.

The recent court challenge focused on definitions of homes and workplaces rather than health.  However, the workplace health issue is important.  Workers need to be protected from second-hand smoke, just as they must be protected from all job hazards.   The bylaw addresses that issue.

Common diseases by which the elderly suffer and die are advanced by exposure to cigarette smoking.  The pain and suffering due to peripheral vascular insufficiency, osteoporotic fractures, heart disease, lung disease and most cancers is increased by cigarette smoking.    Numerous studies have illustrated the significant benefits of smoking cessation in the elderly.  These studies also show that the elderly can successfully reduce and quit smoking.  Seniors are more successful in cessation programs than are younger people and they experience greater health benefits in a shorter time because of the cessation.

When implementing the Grey County smoke-free bylaw, a nursing home in Grey County sponsored a smoker’s cessation support group within the home.  This effort was very successful - all the residents and most of the staff were able to quit smoking.  I admire the administration of that home. They clearly demonstrated their concern and respect for the residents and staff and were able to make positive change to improve health.

Estimate the time, effort and money that are spent when a retirement home challenges the smoke-free bylaw.  What if that sum were spent on an effective smoking cessation program?   Alternatively, the money could be spent on design and construction of a seniors exercise facility, the development of meaningful activities for the residents, or a comfortable bathing spa.   What a positive difference this could have on the lives of all the people who live and work in the retirement home.

Sincerely,

Hazel Lynn, M.D., CCFP, MHSc

Medical Officer of Health