I am writing in response to the March 15 article regarding a study
linking mothers who smoke cigarettes while pregnant and criminal
behavior in their children. Studies such as these without regard to
social class, home environment and other similar factors are highly
questionable.

Publication of this article is reminiscent of the media hype on the
so-called "crack baby" that began in the 1980s and continues today.
The cocaine "studies" claiming to find almost universal harm were
found to be inconclusive or not based on empirical scientific research
that must include all factors affecting a child's health.

Publication of such misinformation leads to horrible, inhumane
incidents like when women were taken away to jail - still bleeding -
after giving birth to children - often healthy - who nevertheless
tested positive for cocaine. Today Whitner vs. State of South Carolina
sets the stage for arresting any pregnant woman who exposes her viable
fetus to any risk of harm - including risks posed by cigarette
smoking. (In fact, the risks of harm from smoking cigarettes are far
better established and far more widespread than those of cocaine.)

Addiction, whether to nicotine or cocaine is a disease that should be
addressed as a health-care issue. We need more treatment centers, not
more prisons. Until we treat rather than punish, we will fill the
prisons with addicts of all kinds, women will avoid getting prenatal
care (it is the health care providers who report them) and real
solutions will be evaded.

And the children that we are supposed to be protecting? Check the Feb.
19 article about the rise in infant mortality in 1997 - the year
following the widely publicized Whitner decision.

Wyndi Anderson South Carolina Advocates for Pregnant Women 171 Church
St., Suite 160