More than a third of Scots report smoking more during lockdown

Figures released from Scottish Government reveal that more than a third (36%) of people who smoke report smoking more during lockdown – with just 8% saying they smoke less.  A little over half (56%) of people who smoke reported smoking the same amount.  

 

The 2020 Scottish Health Survey looks at the impact of COVID-19 on people’s mental and physical health including smoking habits.  

 

Scotland has an ambition to be tobacco-free – with a smoking prevalence rate of 5% or less – by 2034 and these figures suggest that smoking habits are trending in the wrong direction.  

 

Evidence also suggests that smoking can worsen the severity of a COVID-19 infection, so it is more important than ever that people who want to quit smoking to have access to the help and support they need to be successful.  

 

Responding to the latest Scottish Health Survey figures, ASH Scotland Chief Executive Sheila Duffy said:

 

“It’s really worrying that more than a third (36%) of people who smoke report smoking more during lockdown – with just 8% saying they are smoking less.  This has been a stressful time for us all and people are coping as best they can.  It is a common myth that smoking helps you relax, but actually smoking increases anxiety and stress.  

 

“We know that quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your physical health but it also improves your mental wellbeing by reducing depression, anxiety and stress.  I would encourage anyone wishing to stop smoking to contact Quit Your Way Scotland for help and support.” 

 

 

 

1) ASH Scotland – Action on Smoking and Health (Scotland) - is the independent Scottish health charity taking action to reduce the harm caused by tobacco. See www.ashscotland.org.uk. 

2) The Scottish Government published the Scottish Health Survey 2020 on 26 January 2021. Between 5   August 2020 and 23 September 2020, telephone interviews were conducted with 1,920 adults (aged 16 and over) across 1,384 households.  The survey found that 36% of people who smoke reported smoking more during lockdown.  8% of people who smoke reported smoking less during lockdown and 56% of people reported smoking the same amount.

3) Further information about the link between smoking and COVID-19 can be found here: smoking-and-covid-19-briefing-april-2020 (ashscotland.org.uk)