‘It’s Not the Addiction that Kills People, It’s the Smoke’

Each May 31st, the World Health Organization declares another “World No Tobacco Day” meant to encourage a full day of abstinence from all forms of tobacco consumption. But this year, some public health officials are wondering if it’s time to change our approach to healthy living. While no one doubts the addictive properties of tobacco, and the negative consequences for all of our health –  is it time to stop demonizing an addiction that affects 20 percent of Americans, and think of ways for smokers to give up cigarettes but still have access to nicotine? Michael Siegel  of Boston University says its time to consider new options like the e-cigarette, which delivers a safer form of nicotine.