‘Quit smoking’ success as ban hits 10-year landmark

The number of smokers in Cheshire East has dropped by more than 40 per cent since a ban was introduced on smoking in enclosed public places 10 years ago this month.

July 1 marked the 10th anniversary of this key reform, which has made it illegal for anyone to smoke in places such as restaurants, shops or in the workplace.

Before this ban, about 23 per cent in Cheshire East smoked. The current rate is just over 13 per cent. The North West average is 17 per cent. 

However, smoking levels vary across Cheshire East, with 21 per cent of over 15s smoking in Crewe compared with just 11.5 per cent in the Alderley Edge, Chelford, Handforth and Wilmslow areas. The smoking rate is also higher among residents in manual or ‘routine’ jobs.

Smoking is still the single greatest cause of preventable death in the UK – and half of smokers will die prematurely.

Every year, around 96,000 people in the UK die from diseases caused by smoking. Smoking accounts for more than one third of respiratory deaths, more than a quarter of cancer deaths and about one seventh of cardiovascular disease deaths.

A total of 1,660 deaths were related to smoking in Cheshire East during 2012-14, while 443 mothers smoked at the time of pregnancy in the borough in 2015/16 and 4.5 per cent of people aged 15 smoked in 2016.

Fiona Reynolds, director of public health for Cheshire East Council, said, “We would encourage anyone who smokes to access the One You Cheshire East stop smoking service. Smokers are far more likely to successfully quit with the help of a trained advisor, and health benefits can be seen quickly after stopping.”

Councillor Liz Wardlaw, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for health, added: “While the rate of smoking is lower in Cheshire East than many other local authority areas, it is still important for the long-term health of residents that this trend continues – and that people seek the support available to help them quit.”

In order to speak to someone at One You Cheshire East about quitting smoking, phone 0800 085 8818, or visit the One You website at: www.oneyoucheshireeast.org

All you have to do to qualify is to live in the borough and be over the age of 12.