389 



In my review of the literature regarding smoidng behavior, I have t>een struck by the use of 

 hyperbole and innuendo in reporting study results. Labeling smoking as an addiction provides a 

 prime example. Another involves the claim that cigarette smoking is a "gateway drug' for the use 

 of illicit drugs. It is claimed that cigarette smoking is a "powerful predictor" of future illicit drug 

 use. Proponents appear to be arguing that cigarettes produce a "hunger" for more powerful drugs. 

 Such could not be further from the truth. First, it should be noted that research underlying this 

 argtmient reports smoking as a weak predictor at best, and fmds it to be alcohol usage that predicts 

 both cigarette smoking and illicit drug use. Secondly, the vast majority of cigarette smokers have 

 obviously escaped the alleged gateway and never succumb to hard drug abuse. 



The simple explanation for this supposed association shows it to be one of coincidence, rather 

 dian causality. Illicit drug users are often rebellious and have risk taking personalities. These types 

 also represent a small percentage of those who choose to smoke cigarettes. Thus, as admitted in the 

 1988 Surgeon General's report, a common personality construct underlies both uses. Certainly, there 

 is no evidence whatsoever that cigarette smoking causes people to start abusing hard drugs. Would 

 the proponents have us believe that without cigarettes there would be no alcohol or hard drug abuse? 

 The faa is that illegal drug use is on the rise when smoking is declining. 



However laudable one believes the goals of those who seek a smoke-free society, we should 

 all agree that government-sponsored messages about smoking should be founded in fact, based on 

 truth and certainly should not have negative repercussions. The proposed addiction warning and the 

 assumption upon which it is founded are based nerther in science nor fact and will have unintended 



harmful results. 



Thank you Mr. Chairman and members of the Committee. I would be happy to respond to 

 any questions you may have. 



