Smoking
July 2006
It is estimated that smoking related illness kills more than 113,000 people in the UK each year.[see reference 1] In addition to being one of the biggest killers in the UK, smoking can also increase the risk of many cancers including lung, stomach, larynx, colon, cardiovascular disease and thereby vascular dementia, respiratory disease, osteoporotic fractures and stomach ulcers.[see reference 2] It is also associated with a number of other diseases and conditions including, chronic bronchitis, heart disease, circulation problems and respiratory infections.
Second-hand tobacco smoke is the main source of indoor air pollution. For more than a decade, convincing scientific evidence has been available to demonstrate that exposure to second-hand smoke both harms health, and worsens existing health problems. At least one thousand people are estimated to die each year in the UK as the result of exposure to other people’s tobacco smoke.[see reference 3] For further information on the issues surrounding tobacco please see the BMA's various reports [go to the tobacco section of the BMA website].
Many older smokers believe that any damage has already been done and that stopping smoking will not make a difference. This is not always the case as cessation can increase the quality and quantity of life, reduce the risk of developing serious diseases, it can improve general health and well-being.[see reference 4] Reducing smoking amongst the population could also have a positive effect on resources for the health service as highlighted in the Wanless Review.[see reference 5]
As part of the NHS Plan, a comprehensive smoking cessation service is now being provided. This includes providing Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT), which will be available on prescription from GPs. Primary care trusts should also be able to advise on self-help groups and clinics that are available. The NHS also has a smoking helpline (0800 169 0 169) and a website, which provides information and advice on giving up smoking.
References:
[1] British Medical Association (2004) The human cost of tobacco. London: British Medical Association.
[2] Khaw, K T (1997) Healthy Ageing, BMJ 315: 1090-1096.
[3] British Medical Association (2002) Towards smoke-free public places. London: British Medical Association.
[4] ASH Scotland - Older adults
[5] Wanless, D (2002) Securing our health: Taking a long-term view. London: HM Treasury.
Further information:
- Age Concern
- ASH (Action on Smoking and Health)
- BBC Health - Tips to give up smoking
- Cancer Research UK
- Quit – Helping smokers to quit