The latest report from Public Health Wales tells us that smoking is still a major cause of death and ill health in Wales, with 3,845 deaths per year among those over 35.
Smoking related deaths are also three times higher in the most deprived areas, compared to the least deprived areas in Wales.
Between 2020 and 2022, there were over 17,000 hospital admissions that were attributable to smoking – 3.4% of all admissions.
With Welsh Government aiming for a Smoke-Free Wales by 2030, these latest stats raise the question of what more can be done to achieve this goal, as discussed in this ITV Wales News report.
Suzanne Cass, Chief Executive ASH Wales, said:
“These latest statistics serve as an urgent and hard-hitting reminder of the catastrophic toll smoking continues to have on thousands of families across Wales every single year.
“With a shocking one in ten deaths over the age of 35 directly linked to smoking, it is indisputable that immediate and bold action is needed to help smokers quit for good.
“Any strategy aimed at addressing health inequalities in Wales that fails to prioritise smoking cessation is neglecting the very people who need the most support.
“The data makes it clear: we cannot afford complacency.
“This new analysis shows the pressing need to ramp up our efforts to create a Smokefree Wales and make support for smokers a priority for our political leaders.”
