Many risks, costs with alcohol use

In response to Tuesday's letter about former smokers being singled out for higher insurance premiums. I do not know the specifics that the writer did not include, However, I was always told that after stopping smoking for 10 years or longer, people actually are not at risk for additional cigarette/health issues. If the writer is already nearing 70 and has no obvious lung issues, it would certainly appear that they hold no additional risks. I also agree that those who consume alcohol daily, or use drugs should be first to be singled out.

For those who choose to do the research, I believe they would be quite surprised to learn of the additional health risks that alcohol use encourages. There are many illnesses including, hepatitis C that often take the lives of long-term drinkers. Not to mention that alcohol also escalates nearly all existing medical conditions.

Linda Varon
Marysville