Monday, June 9

The effects of secondhand smoke

DR. WALLACE: Even though I'm an adult, I enjoy reading your column directed at teenagers. The great majority of the times I'm in harmony with your answers, but once in awhile we are at opposite ends of a debate.

I happen to be part owner of a restaurant in Rock Island, Ill. Recently, our state passed a ban on smoking in our public places, including restaurants. I think this is a ludicrous decision. If patrons don't want to patronize restaurants that permit smoking (in a smoking section) then they should dine at smoke-free establishments. Why should our state dictate who I can serve in my restaurant?

Already I have seen a drop-off in the number of diners who enjoy our excellent food. I have read in your column that you promote smoke-free restaurants because of the "evils" of secondhand smoke. I've been breathing secondhand smoke (I'm a non-smoker) for over 20 years and I believe I'm in perfect health. Is it possible our state government is believing a myth rather than a fact regarding secondhand smoke? - Nameless, Rock Island, Ill.

NAMELESS: According to our Surgeon General, even short exposure to secondhand smoke can cause damage to blood platelets and blood vessel linings, increasing the risk of a heart attack. A Stanford University study recommends that those who do not want to breathe secondhand smoke when outdoors should be at least 6 feet from a smoker, because of the power of secondhand smoke. The more distance from a smoker, the better the protection.

The state of California was one of the first to ban smoking in public buildings, including all restaurants and bars. The restaurant and bar owners were upset and did all they could to overturn the law, but to no avail. The same rationale was used - "We will lose business."

But since all restaurants were smoke-free, smokers had to stay home or abide by the law. It took about six months and restaurant attendance returned back to normal. No longer do regular restaurant patrons have a choice - smoking, or non-smoking establishments. Now the competition is between great food and superb service, versus average food and average service.

I'm aware that if I'm traveling and dining in a state that still allows smoking in restaurants that I have a choice of non-smoking restaurants or restaurants that allow diners to smoke in their establishments.

However, employees who work in restaurants where smoking is permitted also have a choice, but that choice is to quit!

KEEP SMILING AND KEEP DATING OLDER GUY

DR. WALLACE: I'm 19 and dating a 27-year-old guy. He is wonderful and treats me like the lady I am. We have a great time when we're together.

My aunt (who was my legal guardian) thinks this guy is too old for me and that I should date guys who are 19 or 20. I'd like your opinion, please. I have dated younger guys, but none of them treated me as well as Rudy does. - Rose, Hammond, La.

ROSE: Age difference is not as important when both people are over 18. Smile at your aunt when she brings up Rudy's age, but continue seeing him.

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