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Robert B. Sklaroff, M.D.
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Robert B. Sklaroff, M.D., F.A.C.P. Medical Arts Building - Suite 130 Associates 50 East Township Line Road Medical Oncology/Hematology Elkins Park, PA 19027-2253
Telephone: (215) 663-8200 rsklaroff@comcast.net Facsimile: (215) 663-8388 http://www.doctor-bob.biz/rsklaroff
September 22, 2006
Letter To the Editor: Decrying the new Philadelphia statute banning smoking in many public places, Patrick Barron laments the sacrifice of liberty on the petard of public health (Smoking: One More Freedom Destroyed in Philadelphia, Sept. 19). What he forgets is the scientific evidence that prompted the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to classify passive smoking as carcinogenic, that is, having the ability to cause cancer. Also, it includes the same poisons—such as carbon monoxide—that cause blood vessel disease (such as strokes and heart attacks). Therefore, the driving force behind this bill was what it has been for decades, namely, to protect people who might otherwise be compelled to spend lengthy time-periods in smoke-filled rooms. I suppose he would classify me as one of the zealots who has attempted to be paternalistic —since the 1970’s—when promoting measures to combat the major cause of preventable disease, disability and death…worldwide. Were he to portray us as “forcing hundreds of businesses to adapt to [our] personal whims,” he would be ignoring one of our cherished dicta, a view that addresses his libertarian concerns. “You have the right to swing your fist anywhere, just as long as it doesn’t hit my nose. So, too, you can pollute the air, just as long as your exhaust fumes don’t enter my nose.” Sincerely, |
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To contact me--Robert B. Sklaroff, M.D.--just send an e-mail (rsklaroff@comcast.net).
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