We look at the effectiveness of NHS Stop Smoking Services, smoking by deprivation and smoking patterns among young people.

Smoking is a leading cause of preventable illness and premature death in England. It not only has a detrimental effect on nearly every organ of the body, but also contributes to health inequality and worsening social mobility. Reducing the number of people who smoke is therefore a key priority in improving the health of the population, and Stop Smoking Services are a key NHS intervention to reduce smoking. In October 2023, the government announced the prohibition of the sale of tobacco products to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009, further contributing to the suite of laws in place to reduce the prevalence of smoking. In  January 2024, the government issued a plan to ban disposable vapes as a way to tackle the rise in youth vaping, especially for 11-17 year-olds, and protecting children’s health.... [Click here to view full report on Nuffield website]

[See also, Smoking in pregnancy - How has the percentage of women who smoke during pregnancy changed over time?]