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BDHF praises smoke-free law
5th Feb 2007
The British Dental Health Foundation (BDHF) has welcomed the news that all enclosed public and work places are to be smoke free from July 1, 2007. Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the BDHF, said: ‘The Foundation has been campaigning for a full smoking ban for many years, so this really is excellent news. ‘As well as the obvious oral health problems, like gum disease, stained teeth and bad breath, smoking is also a major cause of mouth cancer – a killer of one person every five hours in the UK. ‘We believe this ban will result in people smoking less while also cutting down on the vast number of “social smokers” who only smoke when they go out for a drink. We are delighted by the government’s decision and look forward to living in a healthier England.’ The British Dental Association (BDA) is also backing the government’s initiative. Susie Sanderson, chair of its executive board, said: ‘The announcement that enclosed public places and workplaces in England will be smoke free from 1 July 2007 is good news. ‘Tobacco can seriously affect oral health and is a major risk factor for oral cancer. The BDA supports any measures which encourage tobacco users to quit, including those which specifically address the risks of second-hand smoke.’ Health Secretary Patricia Hewitt announced the news of the initiative during the launch of a new Smoke-free England campaign. This has been set up to help the country’s 3.7m businesses prepare for the implementation of the legislation on 1 July 2007. Hewitt said: ‘This is a triumph for public health and a huge step forward for health protection. Thousands of people’s lives will be saved and the health of thousands more protected. Smoke-free legislation will protect everyone from the harm of second-hand smoke when working, socialising and relaxing and will provide a more supportive environment for smokers who wish to give up. ‘The scientific and medical evidence is clear – second-hand smoke kills, causing a range of serious medical conditions including lung cancer, heart disease and sudden infant death syndrome in children. ‘This legislation will help to prevent the unnecessary deaths caused every year from second-hand smoke, and recognises that there is absolutely no safe level of exposure.’
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