TALLYING COSTS OF THE NICOTINE FIX

The price of health care directly resulting from tobacco-related diseases rose to $50 billion in 1993, according to new evidence published by the Centers for Disease Control. Although the figure more than doubles previous estimates, many experts say it still falls short, since it doesn't include such factors as prenatal damage or the effects of secondhand smoke. With those costs included, the price tag could double again. The Coalition on Smoking or Health, which unites the efforts of the American Cancer Society, theAmerican Heart Association and the American Lung Association, argues that the new information furthers the case for a tobacco-tax increase to pay for part of the bill for health-care reform. After all, 43 percent of the $50 billion is paid by federally funded medical programs.parpar