4 April 2008 ASH Scotland today [Thursday 24th April 2008] welcomed an important debate on how best to reduce smoking in Scottish homes. Commenting on today’s national seminar on smoking in the home, organised by Health Scotland at Hampden Park, Glasgow, ASH Scotland’s Chief Executive Sheila Duffy said: “It is essential that we learn what works – how to support parents and carers to protect children from tobacco smoke in their homes and cars, and how to put this learning into practice in communities across Scotland. “Research shows that second-hand smoke can have a huge impact on children’s health. Second-hand smoke is known to increase a child’s chances of asthma, respiratory infections, recurrent ear infections and even Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Despite this, four in ten Scottish children live in homes where at least one person regularly smokes inside. “Today’s national seminar is an important chance for public services to learn about how they can work with local communities to build a better understanding of the effects of second-hand smoke, and real improvements in children’s health.” ENDS For further information please contact ASH Scotland on 0131 225 4725. Notes for editors 1. ASH Scotland is the leading Scottish charity campaigning for effective tobacco control. 2. Smoking in the Home: A National Seminar is organised by Health Scotland. It takes place at Hampden Park Stadium on Thursday 24th April. www.healthscotland.com 3. For more information, facts and references about tobacco, contact ASH Scotland’s expert information service on 0131 225 4725 or by email at enquiries@ashscotland.org.uk View our other recent media releases
“We need to ensure that parents and carers know about the risks to their children if they smoke in the house or in their car. We need to make sure that they can access support to help them to quit, where and when they need it.
Sheila Duffy is available for interview.