Update - Efforts to reduce smoking more successful in deprived areas

VOL: 103, ISSUE: 8, PAGE NO: 38

PCTs located in areas of deprivation are more successful than those in affluent areas at reducing smoking levels, according to the Healthcare Commission.

PCTs located in areas of deprivation are more successful than those in affluent areas at reducing smoking levels, according to the Healthcare Commission.

The commission reviewed tobacco control services within primary care in England and recommended that tobacco control must not become a victim of financial constraints or reconfiguration.

The authors identified that high-performing PCTs consulted patients and the public about where, when and how resources to stop smoking should be targeted at them. Some trusts provided extra clinics and smoking cessation services in different languages and in Braille.

The report highlighted a lack of education for staff. It found that 42% of PCTs did not provide new staff with information about their role in promoting smoke-free workplaces or stop-smoking services.

In July all enclosed public places will become smoke free and in October the legal age to purchase cigarettes will rise to 18 years.