Smoking still a killer even if it’s ‘social’

THERE’S “no such thing as a safe cigarette” after a study showed only a few daily puffs dramatically increases the risk of an early death.

Cancer Research UK’S Carl Alexander said: “Tobacco has a devastating effect on the body and is the largest preventable cause of death, causing more than 100,000 UK deaths a year.

“There’s no such thing as a safe level of smoking.

“Whether you’re a social smoker or use your tobacco in a roll-up, cigar or shisha pipe, it puts your health at risk.

“If you smoke, the best thing you can do for your health is to stop.”

The study of more than 290,000 people found “social” smokers are 64% more likely to die earlier than those who never smoke.

This rises to 87% for those who get through between one and 10 cigarettes a day.