States can benefit economically if their residents quit smoking, according to a new study by Penn State University researchers and released today by the American Lung Association.
That much may be obvious – fewer people smoke, fewer people get sick, seek treatment, miss work and die. But this study took a closer look at the cost and benefits of smoking cessation programs for states, which are implementing the programs as part of health care reform.
The American Lung Association says tobacco use kills 393,000 Americans every year, and the study will be used as another tool in the group's efforts to sell cessation programs as not only a health benefit but a financial one.
The economic costs to the country from smoking are more than $301 billion, including $67.5 billion in lost productivity and $117 billion in premature death costs. Direct medical expenditures cost $116 billion.
The study found that per a $5.51 pack of cigarettes, the costs and work productivity losses average $18.05. But for every dollar states invested in comprehensive smoking cessation programs, they would receive an average of $1.26 return on investment (In Maryland, the study finds that figure would be $1.34). And since the highest rates of smoking are found among people with Medicaid benefits, the state and federal government could save more.
The Lung Association is encouraging the government and private insurers to add programs. Maryland is one of seven states that require private plans to cover treatment.
Maryland and its consumers' direct costs now from smoking are an estimated $2.2 billion annually, with work productivity losses at $1.3 billion. Premature death adds $2 billion for a total cost to the economy of $5.5 billion. More study information can be found here.
Associated Press photo