Bans on workplace smoking in Denmark helping people to kick the habit

Experiment in Aarhus showing positive results

Feb 23, 2016

Evidence suggests people quit smoking when they are unable to do so at their workplace, claim campaigners.

After three years of a municipal no-smoking ban in the city of Aarhus, both the cancer society Kræftens Bekæmpelse and the local health department have reported that every fourth smoker has quit and many more have cut down on how much they smoke.

“I am positively surprised that so many people have actually completely quit smoking,” Kræftens Bekæmpelse project director Niels Them Kjær told DR Nyheder.

Should be expanded
The smoking policy in Aarhus prohibits smoking during working hours. No smoking is allowed in municipal buildings or in outdoor areas around the buildings.

“The fact that it is a total ban makes it easier for people to succeed, since no-one can tempt them to come outside for a smoke break,” said Kjær.

Kjær said that the Aarhus experience should encourage other cities to insist on a smoke-free environment.

“It might stop young people from starting, and it protects non-smokers from tobacco smoke during working hours.”

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