Gallup just released this new informational poll that estimates the costs to the U.S. economy for workers that smoke, but here are a couple of highlights (or lowlights)

• Workers who smoke have on average 2.5 more days of absenteeism due to poor health.
• Healthcare costs are $2,056 higher annually for a smoker than a non-smoker.

It is these statistics that make the strongest case for providing more favorable treatment of e-cigarettes.  If e-cigs are the most effective way to get reductions in cigarette consumption or full quitting, they should be positioned and promoted as an aid.  Smoking rates in the U.S. decreased for years, but have stabilized around 20% for years.  This is despite the fact that everyone understands the dangers of smoking and smoking bans and restrictions have been in place for years.  (over 80% of the population lives in places with public smoking bans, and at least 46 of the 60 most populated cities have bans in restaurants and bars).  E-Cigarettes should be considered as a potential way to break through this smoking plateau we’ve reached.

With Novus Twigs, workers can satisfy the cravings they have without having the brave the cold or rain outside.  Or they can head out and socialize with other workers but without tobacco or nicotine.  Companies don’t have to worry about compliance with no-smoking rules, or the use of nicotine based e-cigs.  Novus is a win-win for companies, workers, and the U.S. economy.