How has Scotland’s smoking ban impacted the health of the nation?

20 years ago, Scotland made history as the first part of the UK to ban smoking in enclosed public places. For non-smokers it was a huge victory – for the first time, it meant they could go to work, enjoy a drink in the pub and dine in restaurants without being exposed to second-hand smoke. And for many smokers, it was a turning point that encouraged them to stub out their habit for good.

Now two decades on from this milestone moment, the health experts at YourGP look at the impact this legislation has had on the health of the nation.

The dangers of smoking

Smoking can cause a range of serious health problems including cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung disease and diabetes. It is one of the biggest causes of death and illness in the UK, killing around 76,000 people every year.

And it’s not just the smokers themselves that face significant health risks. One person’s decision to smoke can also have serious consequences for those around them. Passive smoking increases an individual’s risk of developing lung cancer by around 25%, and the consequences of smoking during pregnancy include miscarriage, premature birth and still birth.

The benefits of quitting smoking

Smoking is highly addictive, which makes quitting incredibly difficult for many people. However, the benefits of stubbing out a cigarette for the last time can be felt almost immediately:

• After 20 minutes: Heart rate and blood pressure return to normal
• 8-24 hours: Nicotine and carbon monoxide start to leave the body and oxygen levels return to normal
• 24 hours: Lungs start to clear out mucus and other smoking debris
• 48-72 hours: Sense of smell and taste improve
• 2-12 weeks: Exercise becomes easier and breathing improves
• 3-9 months: Any coughs, wheezing and breathing problems are reduced as the lungs begin to repair
• 1 year: The risk of coronary heart disease is now half that of a smoker

The effects of the smoking ban

Stand-out findings from recent research shows just what a positive impact the smoking ban has had on the nation:

• In 2006 when the ban was introduced, around 25% of Scottish adults smoked.
• By 2024, that figure had fallen to 14%.
• Exposure to second-hand smoke has been cut by 96%.
• The ban has been linked to a 17% drop in the number of people being taken to hospital with heart attacks.
• The ban is also thought to be responsible for a 7% reduction in strokes.
• Research has shown it has helped to improve the health of pregnant women and babies.

Looking to the future

Despite these promising statistics, it is important to note that there are still more than 8,000 smoking-related deaths recorded in Scotland every year.

And whilst there has been a steady decline in smoking rates, vaping continues to increase in popularity, the long-term dangers of which we are still yet to fully understand.

Need help stopping smoking?

The medical professionals at YourGP can help you find a smoking cessation method that’s right for you. Stopping smoking isn’t easy, but we’re here to provide advice, help and support right when you need it.

Use our simple online booking system, call 0131 225 5656, or email our reception team at reception@your.gp to book an appointment at a time that suits you.