The number of smokers rose in 2009 to reach a level of 32% daily smokers, which is the second consecutive rise following a levelling out from 2002 to 2007. Fewer smokers are quitting and more former smokers are starting again. A failure to raise tobacco taxes and the delay in implementing a total smoking ban in the hospitality sector could be the reasons for this.

The press release from the Belgian Fondation contre le Cancer/Stichting tegen Kanker is available in French and Dutch.

On Friday 19 February 2010, the Polish Parliament will vote on the Health Committee’s proposal to introduce a smoking ban in public places and workplaces. It is vital that Polish MPs support this legislation. The Polish Medical Society, NGOs and public health advocates are all calling for a smoking ban and are seeking support from the international community, ENSP and tobacco control advocates.

ENSP forwarded the letter below to the Marshall of the Sejm of the Republic of Poland.

The Slovenian Coalition against Smoking has sent us the latest statistical data on smoking in their country.

Smoking tobacco with a waterpipe (narghile, hookah, shisha) is increasingly popular among young people in France. However, it is not risk-free, either for the active or passive smoker.

Source: French Alliance against Tobacco, Prof. Bertrand Dautzenberg.

A smoking ban is due to come into force at the beginning of August 2007. This document outlines the basic principles of the smoke-free in Slovenia.

Information kindly provided by the Slovenian Coalition for Tobacco Control.