Tobacco killing 3000 a year

Health chiefs say that tobacco “is still the biggest killer” in Lanarkshire.

Every year around 3000 people across because of a smoking-related illness.

That was the bleak message contained within NHS Lanarkshire’s recently-published annual report.

However there was some good news, as Lanarkshire children are taking up the habit.

The report said: “The new Lanarkshire Tobacco Control Strategy (2016–2021) will look clearly to the future and the vision of a smoke free society. The focus of the new strategy will be on putting children first; with a call to action for adults to be positive anti-smoking champions and positive role models, whether they smoke or not.

“Smoking prevalence in young people is, thankfully, at an historic low and fewer Lanarkshire children are starting to smoke.

“The focus of this new strategy will be firmly on prevention and protection from second-hand smoke, but also recognises the need for services that help people the area die fewer to quit.”

And the report adds: “Children are at greater risk from the damaging effects of second-hand smoke because their bodies are still developing. As a result, they are more likely to suffer the health problems it causes.

“Every year, 9500 children in Scotland are admitted to hospital because of the effects of second-hand smoke.

“Reducing the prevalence of smoking, helps reduce the risk of diseases like pneumonia, bronchitis, asthma and a range of other conditions.

“A non-smoking adult or an adult who successfully quits smoking is a positive role model for children and young people.”

The report concludes: “If you smoke, it is important to think about quitting now; conceal your cigarettes from children and never smoke in front of them; make your own home and car smoke free.

“If you work with young people, tell them about the dangers of tobacco and more importantly, talk to them about the many benefits of never starting to smoke.”