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Smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable illness and death in Wales, contributing to numerous chronic conditions that significantly impact quality of life and place a strain on healthcare services.
Smoking affects nearly every organ in the body and is a leading risk factor for chronic diseases. In Wales, smoking-related illnesses such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiovascular disease, and cancers are among the biggest health challenges. Despite declines in smoking rates, the burden of chronic illnesses caused by smoking remains substantial, particularly in disadvantaged communities where smoking rates are higher.
COPD, which includes conditions like emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is a life-limiting lung disease caused mainly by smoking. Over 90% of COPD cases in the UK are linked to smoking. Wales has one of the highest rates of COPD hospital admissions in the UK, with many patients experiencing severe breathlessness and reduced mobility.
Smoking doubles the risk of heart disease and strokes by damaging blood vessels and increasing blood pressure. Every year, smoking contributes to thousands of cases of heart attacks and strokes in Wales, many of which are preventable.
Smoking remains the largest single preventable cause of cancer in the UK. In Wales, smoking is linked to over 70% of lung cancer cases, which remains one of the most deadly cancers. It also contributes to cancers of the mouth, throat, bladder, and oesophagus.
People with mental health conditions are more likely to smoke and are at increased risk of smoking-related illnesses. Smoking is often used as a coping mechanism, but it can worsen long-term physical and mental health outcomes.
Smokers are 30–40% more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes. Smoking also worsens complications in those already living with the condition, increasing the risk of heart disease, kidney damage, and poor circulation leading to amputations.
Quit Smoking: If you or someone you know smokes, quitting is the single most effective way to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses. Free support is available through Help Me Quit.
Spread Awareness: Share information about the dangers of smoking and chronic diseases with your community.
Support Policy Changes: Advocate for policies that reduce smoking rates and improve health outcomes in Wales.
Asthma + Lung UK: Smoking and Lung Health
Learn about how smoking affects lung conditions like asthma, COPD, and lung cancer, and discover resources to help manage these conditions.
Cancer Research UK: Smoking and Cancer
Discover how smoking contributes to various cancers, including lung, throat, and bladder cancer, and access advice on quitting.
British Heart Foundation (BHF): Smoking and Heart Health
Learn about the impact of smoking on your heart and circulatory system, and find tips for quitting to protect your cardiovascular health.
Stroke Association: Smoking and Stroke Risk
Understand how smoking significantly increases your risk of stroke and get practical advice on quitting.
Diabetes UK: Smoking and Diabetes
Explore the link between smoking and Type 2 diabetes, and learn how quitting can reduce complications and improve your overall health.
Help Me Quit Wales
Access free, tailored support to quit smoking, including one-to-one sessions and nicotine replacement therapies.
Your support helps us create impactful campaigns and provide free resources to schools and communities across Wales. Every donation brings us closer to a smoke-free generation.
