Page:Popular Science Monthly Volume 87.djvu/253

Rh, on the other hand, he shows to he independent of the smoke density, following, as it does everywhere, the line of overcrowding and poverty.

In summarizing the results of all medical investigators whose opinions are based on other groups than theory, it can be asserted that smoke has a tremendous influence in increasing the incident severity and mortality of acute disease of the air passages. It would appear that this increased susceptabilitysusceptibility [sic] is, in part, the result of the lowering of our natural body resistance. In simple terms, the smokier the atmosphere, the more the colds and bronchitis, and the more money paid to doctors.

It would seem from a consideration of the four points that have been discussed that it is high time for the people to arouse themselves from the apathy that they have shown toward the smoke nuisance. The purification of the atmosphere should receive the same attention as pure food and pure water are receiving, for it is just as important. People should be educated as to the evils of the nuisance so that an active and intelligent public opinion could be brought to bear on those who are responsible for it. The demand should go out that the nuisance be abated as a menace to health, property and the things which make for civic betterment.