Almost half of regular pub-goers smoke

A new study, out today, reveals that 44% of regular pub-goers are smokers.

This percentage is far higher than the 25% smoking rate among the general population.

The Irish Lifestyles study, which was carried out by Mintel Ireland among some 2,000 consumers, also showed that smokers drink alcohol more frequently than non-smokers.

Both smokers and non-smokers are visiting pubs less, but are still drinking more than before.

Eating habits are also changing, with over half of Irish people overweight, although more people than ever are now going to the gym.

About a sixth of people surveyed admitted to being “junk food addicts”.

Mark O’Connell, director of Mintel Ireland, said that Irish eating habits were becoming more Americanised.