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Smoking Rates in Southern England Rise as National Progress Stalls

While smoking rates in the North continue to decline due to targeted programs, recent increases in the South highlight growing challenges for England's tobacco control efforts.

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Overview

  • Smoking rates in England have fallen significantly over 18 years, but progress has stagnated since 2020, with increases in southern regions.
  • The South West now has the highest smoking prevalence in England, rising from 16.0% in 2020 to 18.7% in 2024.
  • Northern England has seen the fastest decline in smoking rates, attributed to sustained investment in regional tobacco control programs.
  • The proposed Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to create a smoke-free generation by banning tobacco sales to those born after 2009 and restricting vape advertising.
  • Experts warn that funding cuts and NHS restructuring could undermine smoking cessation programs, risking a reversal of progress.