According to the latest statistics from NHS Digital, smoking rates among pregnant women have dropped to the lowest levels on record. In the 2023/24 period, smoking rates at the point of delivery decreased to 7.4%, down from 8.8% the previous year. This decline represents a decrease of approximately 6,000 women. Despite this positive trend, the current rate remains above the national ambition of 6% or less.
NHS Digital highlighted that only 28 out of 106 submitting Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) met the national target of 6% or less in the fourth quarter of 2023/24.
John Waldron, policy and public affairs manager at Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), commented on the progress: “After a prolonged period of stagnation, we are now seeing significant declines in maternal smoking rates, thanks to targeted interventions and support services. The integration of smoking cessation into routine care for pregnant women demonstrates the impact of dedicated efforts on smoking reduction.”
Clare Livingstone, professional policy advisor with the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), expressed enthusiasm about the record-low smoking rates: “We are delighted to witness such substantial reductions in smoking rates among pregnant women, reflecting the dedication and hard work of our maternity services. This achievement marks a significant milestone in enhancing the health outcomes for both mothers and babies.”
Livingstone added, “By embedding smoking cessation support into routine care, we not only protect the current generation’s health but also lay a solid foundation for the future. The collaboration between midwives, healthcare professionals, and the broader community is making a tangible difference, and we remain committed to further reducing smoking rates among expectant mothers.”
The government’s initiative to promote smoking prevention through Integrated Care Systems (ICSs) was also noted. Last year, the ‘smoke free scheme’ encouraged smokers to switch to vaping as a cessation aid. In February 2024, nearly 400,000 vape starter kits were distributed to smokers across England as part of the swap-to-stop initiative. Several ICBs and localities showed keen interest in the program, with over 379,562 vape kits requested by early 2024.
The ongoing efforts underscore a concerted national push towards achieving healthier outcomes for pregnant women and their children, supported by comprehensive smoking cessation strategies integrated into healthcare services.
