More Scots attempt to quit smoking

The number of people looking to quit smoking in Scotland is on the rise. New government figures show that in 2009, over one third more people gave up smoking there than in the previous year.

Around 6.5% of smokers attempted some form of smoking cessation plan with help from the NHS.

Health Minister, Shona Robinson, called it a “significant increase” in the number of people using NHS services and said that the government is “continuing to do all it can to make smoking less attractive.”

Back in 2006, Scotland became the first country in the UK to introduce an indoor public smoking ban. One year later studies showed that hospitalisations resulting from smoking had fallen a great deal, as had heart attacks. These findings were taken as proof that the smoking ban was working. Similar bans were subsequently introduced in England, Wales and Ireland.

Second hand harm

Not only have such bans helped to decrease the direct damage that smoking does; they have also helped to reduce the harmful effects of passive smoking. Second hand smoke kills thousands of people every year and is particularly harmful to children.

There have also been warnings lately about the hazard of ‘third hand’ smoke; nicotine stains that are left on upholstery, furniture and clothing, for some time after smokers have left the room.

From Scotland to Singapore

Meanwhile, across the other side of the world in Singapore, a different and more negative situation has come to light this week. According to a new poll, Singaporean citizens believe that smoking is the country's biggest vice.

It was also found that 84% of smokers in the small Asian nation started the habit when they were in their teens. It’s well known that young people are more prone to becoming addicted to cigarettes, and the damage that it does to their lungs and heart can be more serious if they smoke heavily.

Add Comment