The Sun Journal (July 20) offered an article concerning the regulation of the tobacco industry. The use of tobacco has an immediate, negative impact on the person using it. That impact becomes increasingly symptomatic. Frequently, tobacco becomes a significant factor in the death of the user. That often presents a personal and financial cost to society.

Tobacco products have a twisted appeal to young people. I, also, felt that appeal. In lieu of tobacco, I tried smoking corn silk at age 8. Fortunately, I was caught in the act. Others are not so “lucky.” My use of tobacco was seriously discouraged.

Is it only for the sake of profit that reasonable people produce tobacco and promote its use? Why do the rest of us pick up the butts and tolerate its use?

Harold L. Allen, Topsham