Landmark legislation was passed yesterday to protect the health and future of children. Parliament announced regulations to end smoking in cars carrying children in England. ARNS is thrilled to hear this announcement, especially as many of the members of ARNS see the devastating affects of smoke on health.
It’s know that ‘secondhand smoke is particularly harmful to children as they breathe more rapidly and have less developed airways. Children being exposed to secondhand smoke results in more than 300,000 GP consultations and 9,500 hospital admissions every year’ according to Public Health England.
It is estimated that 3 million children in England are exposed to secondhand smoke, in their family car, this puts children at risk of serious conditions such as respiratory infections and triggering asthma.
The law will come into force on 1 October 2015.
Matthew Hodson, Vice Chair ARNS, said:
‘Members of ARNS have actively supported the campaign to introduce a ban on smoking in cars with children and really welcomes this news.
This announcement is testimony to the recognition that passive smoking in cars with children and a positive move to help reduce the health risks and protection of lung health in children.
ARNS is delighted that this ban has been introduced and we thank the British Lung Foundation for its tireless campaigning, and also to our members for supporting this campaign.
Further information can be found:
http://www.blf.org.uk/News/Detail/Smoking-in-cars-MPs-vote-yes
