Health experts are urging for immediate action as statistics reveal that approximately 40 individuals in the UK pass away daily from a disease that could have been prevented. The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is emphasizing the need to address smoking-related cardiovascular disease fatalities in the country.
In an announcement on its website, the BHF is urging 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 on or after January 1, 2009, and to regulate vape product descriptions and packaging that might attract children.
Furthermore, the bill aims to extend smoke-free zones to encompass areas outside schools, playgrounds, and hospitals. The BHF highlighted that smoking remains the primary preventable cause of death in the UK, leading to a minimum of 15,000 cardiovascular-related deaths annually.
The BHF cautioned that unless concrete measures are taken, tobacco-related illnesses will persist in causing distress to families and communities. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill seeks to establish a generation free from smoking and combat the increasing trend of youth vaping.
Presently, there are “40 lives lost daily to smoking-related cardiovascular disease,” as reported by the organization. It cautioned that without changes, this daily toll could escalate by an additional 40 deaths.
Dr. Charmaine Griffiths, the BHF’s chief executive, expressed dismay over the significant number of lives lost due to smoking in the UK. She stressed the necessity for stringent actions to prevent premature deaths caused by tobacco use. Dr. Griffiths urged politicians from all parties to support and expedite the passage of the bill into law to prevent more avoidable tragedies.
Smoking poses a substantial risk for heart attacks, strokes, and elevated blood pressure. The BHF explained that smoking detrimentally impacts heart health by promoting the accumulation of fatty deposits in artery walls, which can lead to narrowed arteries, increasing the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, smoking elevates blood pressure and heart rate, enhances the risk of blood clot formation, and diminishes oxygen supply to the heart and body.
The organization underscored that individuals in disadvantaged communities are disproportionately more prone to smoking, contributing to higher rates of heart disease and premature mortality. Smoking emerges as the primary factor driving health disparities in England, accounting for up to half of the variance in life expectancy between affluent and deprived regions, owing to its strong association with cardiovascular diseases and cancer, along with the compounding effects of 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. Information on available services can be found on the NHS website.
Alternatively, individuals may access support through a toll-free helpline for guidance on smoking cessation.