A recent survey of over 11,700 people in 12 European countries found that seven out of ten homes in Europe are smoke-free, with differences among countries. Greece had the lowest rate of smoke-free homes at 44%, while England led the way with almost 85% of homes being smoke-free.
The study, published in ERJ Open Research, highlighted that Northern European countries tend to have more smoke-free homes compared to Eastern Europe and less affluent countries. Factors such as age, gender, education level, and presence of children were associated with higher rates of smoke-free homes.
Despite smoke-free regulations in public spaces implemented in many European countries since 2004, private areas like homes still remain locations for smoking and exposure to tobacco smoke. Passive smoking, or secondhand smoke, is linked to various health conditions such as lung cancer and heart disease, emphasizing the importance of smoke-free environments.
The study’s authors urged for stronger tobacco control measures to accelerate the trend towards smoke-free homes in Europe. Expanding smoke-free laws in workplaces, public spaces, and even private areas like cars, along with strategies to reduce smoking at home, are essential for creating healthier environments and reducing the risks associated with passive smoking.
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