Study Gives New Meaning to “Man’s Best Friend”

By Jackie

A recent study suggests that one in three smokers, previously uninterested in kicking the habit, would consider doing so after learning of its harmful effect on pets.  The study, which appeared in a recent issue of Tobacco Control, drew responses from nearly 3,300 pet owners, 28.4 % of whom would consider quitting after learning of the potential danger of secondhand smoke to their pet.  Additionally, one in five smoking pet owners said they would ban smoking entirely inside their home.  Perhaps if you won’t quit to save yourself, you’ll do it for dear old Spot?

The study could potentially open new doors for antismoking advocates searching for new and effective ways to successfully reach today’s smokers.  The quest to curb U.S. smoking has ensued for decades with heavy participation and relentless efforts from many of the country’s top hospitals and non-profits like the American Heart Association and American Cancer Society.  Despite countless antismoking campaigns illustrating the risk of heart disease, lung cancer, stroke and aortic aneurysms, an alarming 46 million Americans still light up regularly.

But maybe these recent findings from Tobacco Control are just what the doctor ordered. Researchers are planning to conduct a follow-up study that incorporates a more nationwide representation and examines more closely the behavior of smokers, but find the study’s preliminary results promising. 

“Man’s best friend” has never rung truer.

Add comment February 18th, 2009