CANCER has been the scourge of humanity for centuries, with the smoking of tobacco eventually being claimed as the culprit.
It has had ever increasing ailments being attributed to it, some of which will undoubtedly be questioned by the tobacco industry and others regarding the validity of these claims.
Until about the mid 1960s, smoking was a way of life and anyone, including teenagers, who did not indulge were regarded as “rather odd”.
In America during that era some doctors were advertising on TV the virtue and pleasures of smoking cigarettes.
During 1963 while living in Sydney, I was advised by a GP to have a cigarette to relieve my constipation when on the toilet!
About 40 years ago, I eventually beat the habit.
Unfortunately, there are many who just cannot resist having a puff and are made to feel like lepers, even in this neo-liberalised society – compounded by the ridiculous conception of banning smoking in the street and public parks, which undoubtedly will be adopted should the EU promote it.
It is difficult to understand that with the huge increase in medical science during the 19th century, it has taken so long to conclude that the smoking of tobacco was so damaging to our health.
George Humphreys Ringsbury Close Purton
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article