Health experts are advocating for change in light of statistics revealing that approximately 40 individuals in the UK succumb daily to a “preventable” ailment. The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is stressing the need for immediate action to lower the fatalities attributed to smoking-related cardiovascular diseases in the country.
A recent update on the BHF’s website highlights their call on the Government to swiftly advance the Tobacco and Vapes Bill in Parliament. This proposed legislation would grant the Government authority to phase out tobacco sales for individuals born after January 1, 2009, and regulate vape flavor descriptions and packaging that may appeal to minors.
Additionally, the bill aims to extend smoke-free zones to encompass areas outside schools, playgrounds, and hospitals. The BHF emphasized that smoking remains the primary preventable cause of death in the UK, accounting for a minimum of 15,000 cardiovascular-related deaths annually.
The BHF cautioned that unless decisive measures are taken, tobacco-related illnesses will persist in causing harm to families and communities. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to establish a smoke-free generation and address the escalating trend of youth vaping.
Currently, an average of 40 lives are lost each day to smoking-related cardiovascular diseases, with projections indicating a potential daily increase of similar magnitude without intervention, according to the organization.
Dr. Charmaine Griffiths, the BHF’s chief executive, expressed alarm at the significant loss of lives due to smoking across the UK, underlining the urgency for stringent measures to prevent premature deaths caused by tobacco use. The organization urged politicians from all parties to support the bill promptly to prevent further avoidable tragedies.
Smoking poses a severe risk factor for heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure, as explained by the BHF. The detrimental effects of smoking on heart health include arterial wall thickening, accumulation of fatty deposits, increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, elevated blood pressure and heart rate, heightened likelihood of blood clots, and reduced oxygen supply to the heart and body.
Moreover, individuals residing in disadvantaged communities are significantly more inclined to smoke, leading to higher rates of heart disease and premature mortality. Smoking stands out as the primary driver of health disparities in England, accounting for up to half of the variation in life expectancy between affluent and deprived areas due to its strong association with cardiovascular diseases, cancer, poverty, and stress.
For assistance in quitting smoking, individuals can seek referrals from their GP, pharmacist, or health visitor, or contact their local stop smoking service to schedule a consultation with an advisor through the NHS. Information on available services can be found on the NHS website.
Alternatively, individuals can access support through a toll-free helpline.