An article published in The Journal of the American Medical Association earlier this year documents the ‘war against tobacco’ which has been ongoing for the past 50 years in the US and indeed in societies worldwide.

It reiterates the stark reality that smoking remains an unequaled health risk; approximately half a million Americans die prematurely each year from diseases directly caused by tobacco use. Quitting smoking could potentially add up to twenty years onto a persons life expectancy. Suggested strategies both here in Ireland and in the US to reduce tobacco use include more inclusive cigarette and cigar excise tax increases, regulation on e-cigarettes and plain packaging of cigarettes. To read more on this article click here.