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07/04/2004
Workplace smoking ban would save hundreds of lives: report
Around 1,000 deaths linked to smoking-released causes could be prevented if a workplace smoking ban was enforced in Glasgow, Scotland's Chief Medical Officer has claimed.
Dr Mac Armstrong made the claim only nine days after a ban on public smoking came into force in Ireland.
Publishing his annual report for 2003, Dr Armstrong urged Scottish smokers to make use of the cessation services set up by the Executive, and quit.
"I recognise how tough it is for smokers to give up, but there is help out there and the Executive has provided millions of pounds of funding for cessation services. Many thousands of Scots have already kicked the habit and now have more cash in their pockets as well as a healthier lifestyle," he said.
Smoking is the single biggest cause of preventable premature death and ill-health in Scotland. Around 13,000 Scots die each year from smoking-related illnesses, costing the NHS an estimated £200 million.
Poor diet, lack of physical activity and alcohol misuse must also be tackled to reduce deaths from the 'big three' illnesses – coronary disease, lung disease and cancer – he said.
Dr Armstrong added that avoidance of smoking would eliminate one-third of cancer deaths, and one sixth of deaths from other causes, including respiratory diseases, heart disease and strokes.
Backing the ban call, the anti-tobacco group, Ash, said evidence on the harmful effects of passive smoke was "mounting".
Dr Maureen Moore, Chief Executive of Ash Scotland, said: "We welcome the report. If a ban on smoking in the workplace could save that many lives in Glasgow alone, what are the implications for Scotland as a whole?"
She added: "Voluntary codes do not protect the workforce. We need legislation. It's time for the First Minister to show leadership".
Earlier this year, the Executive launched 'A Breath of Fresh Air for Scotland - the Tobacco Control Action Plan', which contained a range of measures aimed at reducing tobacco-related harm in Scotland, including further investment for cessation services.
(gmcg)
Dr Mac Armstrong made the claim only nine days after a ban on public smoking came into force in Ireland.
Publishing his annual report for 2003, Dr Armstrong urged Scottish smokers to make use of the cessation services set up by the Executive, and quit.
"I recognise how tough it is for smokers to give up, but there is help out there and the Executive has provided millions of pounds of funding for cessation services. Many thousands of Scots have already kicked the habit and now have more cash in their pockets as well as a healthier lifestyle," he said.
Smoking is the single biggest cause of preventable premature death and ill-health in Scotland. Around 13,000 Scots die each year from smoking-related illnesses, costing the NHS an estimated £200 million.
Poor diet, lack of physical activity and alcohol misuse must also be tackled to reduce deaths from the 'big three' illnesses – coronary disease, lung disease and cancer – he said.
Dr Armstrong added that avoidance of smoking would eliminate one-third of cancer deaths, and one sixth of deaths from other causes, including respiratory diseases, heart disease and strokes.
Backing the ban call, the anti-tobacco group, Ash, said evidence on the harmful effects of passive smoke was "mounting".
Dr Maureen Moore, Chief Executive of Ash Scotland, said: "We welcome the report. If a ban on smoking in the workplace could save that many lives in Glasgow alone, what are the implications for Scotland as a whole?"
She added: "Voluntary codes do not protect the workforce. We need legislation. It's time for the First Minister to show leadership".
Earlier this year, the Executive launched 'A Breath of Fresh Air for Scotland - the Tobacco Control Action Plan', which contained a range of measures aimed at reducing tobacco-related harm in Scotland, including further investment for cessation services.
(gmcg)
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31 May 2004
Ireland's smoking ban a 'success' says report
Ireland's Office of Tobacco Control (OTC) has reported that 97% of premises are complying with legislation calling for a smoking ban in the workplace. The research has also shown that levels of visits to pubs and restaurants remain constant with one-in-five smokers choosing not to smoke at all when socialising.
Ireland's smoking ban a 'success' says report
Ireland's Office of Tobacco Control (OTC) has reported that 97% of premises are complying with legislation calling for a smoking ban in the workplace. The research has also shown that levels of visits to pubs and restaurants remain constant with one-in-five smokers choosing not to smoke at all when socialising.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:After a dry start this morning rain will spread from the northwest across all parts. This afternoon will be dull with some patchy rain and drizzle. Becoming much milder through the afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 10 °C.
