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Smokin’ hot decision

Helen Heinlo smokes outside of a coffee shop in Belmont, Calif., in 2007. A new federal study suggests menthol cigarettes are likely more risky to smokers’ health. (Associated Press)
Helen Heinlo smokes outside of a coffee shop in Belmont, Calif., in 2007. A new federal study suggests menthol cigarettes are likely more risky to smokers’ health. (Associated Press)

Retail pharmacy CVS will no longer sell tobacco. The company will lose an estimated $2 billion in sales, but CVS Pharmacy president Helen Foulkes believes it is a move that makes sense. CVS is the first large retail pharmacy chain to eliminate tobacco from its shelves.

First Lady Michelle Obama agrees that the decision sends a message about healthcare choices in our country where 42 million people still smoke and 480,000 deaths are smoking related. Smoking is highest among people with less income and less education. 

(S-R archive photo)

Spokesman-Review features writer Rebecca Nappi, along with writer Catherine Johnston of Olympia, Wash., discuss here issues facing aging boomers, seniors and those experiencing serious illness, dying, death and other forms of loss.