According to Cancer Research, progress in reducing the number of smokers has “slowed,” and based on current patterns, the government will not reach its target until 2039.
According to a recent estimate, government goals to reduce the number of smokers in England by 2030 will not be realized.
In 2019, the government outlined a goal for England to be “smoke-free” by 2030, defined as a reduction in adult smoking rates to 5% or below.
Cancer Research UK estimated that the aim may not be reached for another decade.
According to the charity, progress in reducing the number of smokers has “slowed,” and the government will not reach its objective until 2039 based on current patterns.
According to a recent report by the charity, 8.3% of the population will identify as smokers in 2030.
Cancer Research UK has urged Health Secretary Steve Barclay to spend more on stop-smoking programs and explore raising the minimum age for purchasing cigarettes.
If the government cannot afford this, the cigarette industry should “pick up the tab,” the charity stated.
The organization also urged the government to respond to the Khan review, which was published in June and focused on eliminating smoking.
Smoking remains the most preventable cause of cancer and death in the United Kingdom, but the government can alter this,” said Cancer Research UK’s chief executive, Michelle Mitchell.
With courageous action and strong leadership, we can assure a tobacco-free future to reduce cancer and save lives.
“We urge Steve Barclay to continue his legacy of tobacco control boldness to reduce the number of people who develop and die from smoking-related cancers, relieve the strain on the NHS, and save the nation billions of pounds annually.”
Cancer Research UK’s chief physician, Professor Charles Swanton, added: “One of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is to quit smoking.
“But individuals are rarely successful on their own; they require assistance and the necessary tools to quit.
Despite this, resources for smoking cessation services have been reduced repeatedly, and access varies widely across the nation.
A representative for the Department of Health and Social Care stated: “The government is committed to its goal of making England smoke-free by 2030, and as a result of our efforts, smoking rates in England are at an all-time low.
“We are now evaluating the wide range of suggestions outlined in the Khan Review and determining the best way to implement them; subsequent actions will be outlined in due course.”
