Monetary Benefits:
Smoking is directly correlated to adverse health effects including heart disease, cancer, chronic pulmonary diseases, nuclear cataract, hip fractures. See Tables 2.0-2.3 in Annex for breakdowns. According to the latest NZ health statistics, of the 8469 prison population, 67.1% smoke which equates to 5674 people. Each smoker in prison costs the NZ taxpayer $20,000 per annum in associated healthcare costs. A total smoking ban in NZ prisons could therefore potentially save the New Zealand economy over $113 million dollars annually. 1 in every 2 smokers will die a premature death because of tobacco addiction; therefore, 2837 lives would potentially be extended; these benefits would be increased if prison staff were included in the smoking ban. Furthermore, 3500 staff in NZ prisons are exposed to second hand smoke or ETS at levels 12 times the national average. A smoking ban which does not apply to prison staff would reduce the levels of ETS exposure; however a ban including staff would mean zero levels of ETS exposure preventing impending law suits. Deaths associated with second hand smoke are approximately 1% of the population; at 12 times higher exposure rates in prisons; a ban including prison staff could mean preventing a premature death of 420 people over the long term. Corrections insurance premiums could be lowered with the introductions of 100% smoking bans in prisons.
Monetary Costs:
Sustained cessation comes with costs; a quitline/ Aukati Kai paipa/ Pacific service to help an estimated 5800 prisoners stop smoking is expected to cost the taxpayer at least $13 million.