The smoking ban has shown that meaningful change is possible

Smoking rates in Scotland have halved, and thousands of lives have been saved since smokefree legislation came into force twenty years ago. As the anniversary approaches, Public Health Scotland (PHS) is highlighting the profound impact of the ban — a public health success story that continues to shape the nation’s wellbeing.

A new report, published today by PHS, shows the positive impact this decisive measure has had on non-smokers too. The legislation protected most people in Scotland from breathing in cigarette smoke during their daily lives and the public health gains are clear. The reduction in second-hand smoke exposure resulted in fewer deaths and hospitalisations from heart attacks and strokes, as well as having a positive impact on the health of pregnant women and their babies. 

What’s more, today’s report highlights that we have made significant shifts in how we view tobacco in Scotland, with smoking having become less socially acceptable.

Commenting on the forthcoming 20^th anniversary of the implementation of Scotland’s smoke free legislation, Dr Garth Reid, Consultant in Public Health at Public Health Scotland, said:

“Smoking is one of the biggest causes of ill health and premature death in Scotland. Thanks to the smoking ban we have historically low smoking rates in Scotland, and we’re keen to encourage more people to give up smoking as we progress to becoming smoke-free in 2034.

“Giving up smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health, and the benefits start to happen quickly ­– even for people who have smoked for a long time. 

“Whether you’re ready to stop, or just beginning to think about it, the NHS Scotland stop smoking service, Quit Your Way, and your local pharmacy are here to help you stop smoking and stay stopped in a way that is right for you.”

Dr Rishma Maini, Consultant in Public Health at PHS said:

"Scotland’s smoking ban shows that bold, preventative action works. We now have an opportunity to apply that same ambition to other major drivers of ill health, including overweight and obesity. For example, legislation and regulation to improve the food environment could make it easier and more affordable to access a healthy diet. If we get this right, we can deliver the same scale of change again, improving health and wellbeing for people across Scotland.”

Public Health Scotland is the lead national agency for improving and protecting the health and wellbeing of all of Scotland’s people. We lead and support work across Scotland to prevent disease, prolong healthy life, reduce health inequalities and promote health and wellbeing.

*Scottish Health Survey (2024) Scottish Health Survey - gov.scot

Impact of the smoke-free public spaces legislation 20 years on: Evidence briefing.

More information about creating a tobacco-free generation by 2034 is available on the Scottish Government website: Tobacco Control Policy in Scotland – Background - Tobacco and vaping framework: roadmap to 2034 - gov.scot