Study shows smoking habits worsening

Irish smoking habits have got significantly worse over the past decade.

New research shows that more women are lighting up and there has been a drop in the numbers trying to kick the habit.

The survey launched today by Nicorette paints a dismal picture of smoking habits over the past decade.

It shows that despite heavy investment in anti-smoking campaigns, the percentage of smokers has increased from 51% to 62%, more women than men are smoking and less smokers are trying to give up.

More than a quarter of those questioned said a hike in the price of cigarettes would encourage them to quit, but 52% said neither an increase in price nor a ban in public places would make them give up.