I was surprised last night while preparing dinner and listening to the NBC Evening News that the percentage of Americans who smoke cigarettes has fallen below 20% for the first time since at least the mid-1960s.
The CDC says in its Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report that the prevalence of smoking fell in 2007 to 19.8%, nearly a full percentage point from 20.8% in 2006. This is the lowest level since the late 1920’s.
In 1965 42.5% of Americans over 18 smoked. How many baby boomers grew up with smoking parents? I did, both parents smoked Winston Reds (there were no lights back then.) They smoked in the house, in the car, in restaurants and it was very accepted. You went to a friends house and it was the same. Is it any wonder I was a sickly little kid always fighting respiratory illnesses.
I live in a state that continues to vote against the smoking ban in restaurants. However two of the most popular restaurants in my little town banned smoking due to customer demand. Maybe someday we’ll be able to go into any restaurant in any state and never hear the words again, “smoking or non-smoking?’”
Both my parents smoked like chimneys, and my youngest brother and I used to have terrible respiratory illnesses, though it seemed to skip my middle brother. Anyway, none of us smoke.
But it’s funny how things can skip a generation. Despite all the anti-tobacco indoctrination he received, and knowing all too well how I deplore the habit, my older son smokes.
He says he’ll quit some day. I hope he’ll be able to.
In our town, they banned it. People are supposed to not smoke within 20 feet of establishments. I love it. And I’ve reminded a couple of people that they’re not within the ordinance! I have respiratory problems also at times.
Brenda
My parents smoked until I was 18 or so. I can remember them having people over and the house being so full of smoke that my brother and I were sitting by an open window as our eyes were burning.
Eight years ago we were all out for my birthday, in a bar/restaurant with a band and my mother commented how smoke-free the place was — had they been out when she was younger the place would have been blue with smoke. Even then, though, the restaurant was smokier than I would have liked.
Our restaurants and bars are smoke-free now. It’s a pleasure to be able to go home after dinner out and not have to throw your clothes in the laundry right away.
Cilicious- my oldest smokes too, he’ll go cold tukey and quit for 6 months and then pick them up again. It’s such a nasty addiction and one of the hardest to break.
Brenda – good for your town! Someday I think all states will be non smoking, wish it was sooner rather than later though.
Delmer – I remember when Ohio went non-smoking (have family and friends there). You’re so right about the smell in clothes!!Guess the only people that don’t mind that are the dry cleaners
I absolutely loathe smoking! I feel fortunate to live in a state that bans it in all indoor areas (except Indian gaming casinos) and even in some outdoor areas. I can’t stand even the slightest hint of cigarettes! You can guess what I must think most smokers are!
Keli- Wasn’t CA., one of the first states to go non smoking? I will be SO HAPPY when all states follow suit!