Madam, - Having worked as a doctor for 22 years I have always been struck by the insidious nature of the harmful effects of smoking - a gradually diminishing lung function over years, until the patient realises too late that the damage is irreparable. In some respects it would be better if cigarettes had an immediately harmful effect, registering a shock to the system that would make the smoker aware of the folly of his or her ways.
Like the gradual effect of cigarettes, the annual budgetary rises in their price over the years have had a relatively painless effect on smokers' pockets. Is it not time for a huge rise? I call on Mr Mc Creevy to make a major impact on the smoker where it hurts. This would have a very positive effect on the future health of the nation. - Yours, etc.,
Dr EDWARD HARTY, Lettermore, Co Galway.