The Press Association – Jun 27, 2008
Almost a quarter of a million people have stopped smoking since the ban on lighting up in public places was introduced, according to an official report to be published next week.
A total of 234,060 people have stopped smoking with the help of the NHS Quit Smoking Service since the ban was brought in on July 1, 2007. That is 22% more people than in the previous 12 months.
The Department of Health report on the smoke-free legislation will be published on the first anniversary of the smoking ban.
It also states the ban has cut pollution levels in bars and restaurants by 91%.
Fears that the ban would not be enforced have proved groundless with 98% of premises inspected complying with the legislation and 76% of the population saying they back the law.
In the foreword to the report, Chief Medical Officer Sir Liam Donaldson writes: “The significance of the smoke-free laws cannot be underestimated.
“A significant reduction in second-hand smoke with its damaging health effects has been achieved. We expect many lives have been saved. Everyone has the right to enjoy the benefits of a cleaner, healthier environment.”
Amanda Sandford, research manager at the campaigning charity Action on Smoking and Health, said the ban had been a resounding success.
She said: “There are so many benefits from the legislation. For example, we have seen a decline in the number of people being admitted to hospital with heart disease and there has been a 76% reduction in the nicotine levels of bar workers.
“But we can not sit on our laurels. There are still nine million adult smokers in England alone and smoking is still the biggest cause of preventable sickness and death in this country.”