Norwegian Tobacco Research Confirms Our Worst Fears

Date: 22 September 2005

Research conducted by the National Health Screening service in Norway, due to be published today, confirm our worst fears in relation to tobacco use. This massive research involving 43,000 people over 30 years will demonstrate that very light smokers are putting their lives at risk especially in regard to heart disease and lung cancer.

Professor Luke Clancy, Chairman of ASH Ireland, said today, “This research has been awaited by the health lobby for some time. The study is highly significant in terms of sample (43,000) people and its time span (33 years). The study confirms our worst fears – namely that even as few cigarettes a day can triple the risk of lung cancer and heart disease. All of us must evaluate this research when published and take heed of its very serious message”.

Close to 7,000 Irish people die from the effects of tobacco related disease in Ireland each year.