Tameside smoking rate amongst region’s highest – despite year-on-year decline

Tameside remains one of the North West’s smoking hotspots, despite a decline in its smoking rate over the past year, according to new figures released by the Department of Health and Social Care.

The latest data shows that 13.6% of Tameside residents smoke, more than 1 in 7 adults. While this marks a 9.33% decrease compared with the previous year, the borough still records a smoking prevalence 30% above the national average and 25% higher than the Northwest average.

Smoking cessation experts say the figures are worrying because, although the trend is moving downward locally, Tameside continues to record levels far above many nearby areas, and concerns persist that some residents may be turning back to cigarettes amid negative debate surrounding vaping.

The Northwest has the third-highest smoking rate in England, with around 1 in 9 residents smoking. But Tameside’s rate remains significantly elevated despite its recent fall.

Although Tameside’s rate is falling, experts warn that the borough is still lagging behind its neighbours in reducing smoking.

Dan Marchant, smoking cessation expert and Director of Vape Club, says shifting perceptions around vaping could hinder further progress in areas like Tameside.

“Although smoking rates have generally declined across the UK, it’s concerning that certain areas have experienced a rise in smoking,” he says.

“Vaping is recognised as a safer alternative, helping many quit. However, the recent negative portrayal of disposable vaping devices threatens to reverse progress. Some smokers who might have switched to e-cigarettes are now reluctant to, and many former smokers are returning to cigarettes.”

He adds that the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities continue to highlight vaping as an effective tool for quitting and stresses the need for “clear, evidence-based education on the risks of vaping versus smoking”.