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Health Inequalities

Some people in Wales live longer and healthier lives than others, and that’s not just down to luck. Where we live, how much we earn, and what we can afford all have a big impact on our health. These differences are called health inequalities, and smoking is one of the biggest reasons they exist.

What Are Health Inequalities?

Health inequalities mean that some people in Wales live shorter, unhealthier lives than others, simply because of where they live, how much money they have, or their job. It’s unfair—and we’re here to change it. Smoking is one of the biggest reasons for these inequalities, but together, we can create a healthier, more equal future for everyone in Wales.

What Is The Issue?

Health inequalities happen when people don’t have the same opportunities to be as healthy as others. Smoking is a key factor—it affects poorer communities more, making them more likely to suffer from serious illnesses like cancer, heart disease, and breathing problems. These inequalities trap families in cycles of poor health, making it harder to break free.

Why it Matters?

Health Problems

Smoking causes illnesses that stop people from working or looking after their families. It can lead to long hospital stays, ongoing health problems, and a lower quality of life.

Secondhand Smoke

Secondhand smoke harms everyone around it, especially children, leading to chest infections, asthma, and other breathing problems.

Cost To Families

Smoking is expensive. Many families struggling with money find it even harder when buying cigarettes is part of their budget. Quitting smoking doesn’t just save lives—it frees up money for other important things.

Limited Choices

For some, smoking feels like the only way to cope with stress or tough times. But the truth is, smoking adds more problems than it solves.

Key Stats

Welsh Smokers Faced with Choosing: Smoking, Heating, or Eating

Welsh Smokers are choosing between smoking, heating, or eating, as the cost of living deepens in Wales. Concerns have been …

Smoking is forcing families across Wales further into poverty, charity warns

With cigarettes costing £10 a packet and nearly of quarter of Welsh residents living in poverty, ASH Wales is asking, …

Welsh Health Network Calls for Urgent Action to Tackle Smoking and Mental Health

Health professionals in Wales are calling for immediate action to better support those with mental ill health to quit smoking as …

Welsh Smoking Rates Fall but Health Gap Widens

New health statistics released today (Thursday 29th June) show the number of smokers in Wales is at a record low …

ASH Wales Launches New Initiative to Tackle Ill Health in Wales

ASH Wales, the charity that protects children from becoming addicted lifelong smokers, has today launched an exciting new initiative to …

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