Dr Laura Jones Lecturer in Qualitative & Mixed-Methods Applied Health Research, Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham
Abstract
Exposure to secondhand smoke has been causally linked with mortality and morbidity in non-smokers and disproportionately affects the health of children and young people. In England, the percentage of young people living with smokers who are regularly exposed to secondhand smoke at home has fallen by 44% since 1998. However, 39% of young people are still regularly exposed at home. Whilst the home is the main source of exposure for young people, exposure to secondhand smoke in private cars remains a significant secondary source. Prevalence estimates range from 6.5% to 46% across the UK.
The first half of this presentation will provide an overview of current prevalence and trends in exposure to secondhand smoke at home, and will highlight key emerging evidence about how we can help families to change their home smoking behaviours. The second half will provide an update on compliance and enforcement of the recently implemented smoke-free car legislation in England and Wales, as well as legislative developments internationally.
