Fears raised over Warwickshire’s health

Statistics from a new report have revealed that almost 1,600 children in Warwickshire have started smoking in the last year, with nearly one in every five pregnant women smoking right up until giving birth.

Shocking facts unveiled by the report have raised important health issues within Warwickshire.

Dr Linnane, Warwickshire’s director of public health, told the Leamington Observer: “How can we have one
in five babies being born in the county who have effectively already been smoking for nine months at the
time they take their first breath?”

The report, commissioned by the Warwickshire County Council, also highlighted that life expectancy in the most deprived areas is nearly eight years lower than that in better off areas.

The Boar carried out a small survey among Warwick students, asking about personal health and lifestyle.

The results show that 53 per cent of students admit to having smoked at least once in their lives.

Mems Ayinla, First-year Law student, said: “I expect a higher amount to be honest. Many who choose to smoke already know the risks.”

Smoking for many is a habit which turns into an addiction, but for some it’s not the nicotine that compels them to pick up a cigarette.

A first-year student, who prefers not to be named, commented: “Smoking for me isn’t really something I’d ever do on my own. It’s all about the social element.

“If everybody goes out for a cigarette then you never want to be one waiting alone inside. Cigarettes are like alcohol in that they’re just another social lubricant.”