To the editor:

A recent letter cited the “bias” involved in Internet Web sites on clean indoor air issues. Major Web sites including the Centers for Disease Control, the American Lung Assn., the American Heart Assn., the American Cancer Society, the American Medical Assn., the American Public Health Assn., the National Cancer Institute and many other highly regarded health organizations have consistently promoted policies to eliminate exposure to secondhand smoke in public places, including workplaces.

These recommendations are based on scientific research, not on “lies or deceit.” Over the past 30 years, credible health, medical, environmental, and economic journals have published numerous health and economic studies by national and international researchers, only after other recognized scientists attested to the methodology used and the conclusions drawn in such research.

A legitimate economic study compares objective, comprehensive, measurable data: revenue and tax receipts, employment rates, number of hospitality establishments from before and after the enactment of smoke-free policy. On the other hand, tobacco-industry releases often feature anecdotal accounts or surveys from restaurant and bar owners on their perceptions of possible losses caused by smoking bans.

Public policies to eliminate secondhand smoking in workplaces are founded on scientific facts. That is why health and the economics of health are rallying advocates to enact clean-air policies not only in Lawrence but also in other communities in Kansas and all across the United States.

Clean indoor air is good for health and good for business. And certainly good for Lawrence.

Mary Jayne Hellebust,

executive director,

Tobacco Free Kansas Coalition

Topeka