We must stamp out smoking

IT was with much disappointment and concern here at the Irish Cancer Society, the national cancer care charity, that we reviewed the results of the SLÁN survey of Lifestyle, Attitudes and Nutrition in Ireland (April 30).

The key results of this national survey of 10,364 respondents aged 18 and over showed that 29% of our population smoke — an increase from 27% in 2002. Young adults were most likely to smoke (35% of those aged 18-29), as well as those in lower socio-economic groups.

Smoking causes 30% of all cancers, including 95% of lung cancers. Half of all smokers will die from tobacco-related disease and, of these, 50% will die prematurely.