Eurobarometer: More Europeans Support Smoke-Free Policies

The majority of European citizens are in favor of smoke-free policies, according to the results of an EU survey on tobacco unveiled by EU Health Commissioner Markos Kyprianou in anticipation of World No Tobacco Day, coming up on the 31st of May.

The Eurobarometer survey shows that an overwhelming majority (88 percent) support smoke-free offices, indoor workplaces and public spaces, as well as bars (62 percent) and restaurants (77 percent).

Commissioner Kyprianou said, "The prevalence of tobacco consumption and the exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke is a major public health concern in Europe. About 650 thousand people die each year because of smoking. A further 80,000 adults are killed by second-hand tobacco smoke. The survey shows clear public support for smoke-free policies."

With the survey also indicating that one in three smokers tried to quit in the last year, but that over 70 percent relapsed, Commissioner Kyprianou announced the launch of an e-mail coaching service to support people as they give up smoking. The coaching will be part of the EU's anti-smoking campaign, "HELP – For a Life Without Tobacco."

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