Why is the American Lung Association distributing the findings of the Penn State study?
It is a priority of the American Lung Association to increase the number of smokers who can have access to cessation treatment and who can afford it. While the health benefits of tobacco cessation are widely known, there is less information available about the economic benefits. This study provides important information on costs and benefits on a state-by-state basis, which is extremely useful information for policymakers and advocates. The study also is timely, as fiscally strapped states are hunting for ways to save money and the nation is beginning to implement health care reform.