Last updated 16 November 2011
Smoking should be banned in private motor vehicles, according to the British Medical Association (BMA).The organisation has reviewed the scientific evidence on second-hand smoke in cars and concluded that it poses a significant health risk, particularly to children and older people.
This is because children have under-developed immune systems and absorb more pollutants, while older people are more prone to respiratory problems.
Research suggests that the levels of toxins when a person smokes inside a car are 25 times higher than in a smoky bar.
This means that both smokers and non-smoking drivers and passengers are exposed to extremely high levels of harmful chemicals.
In light of its research, the BMA is urging the UK government to introduce new legislation banning smoking in private vehicles.
The organisation's director of professional activities, Dr Vivienne Nathanson, said: 'Every year in England there are over 80,000 deaths that are caused by smoking.
'We are calling on UK governments to take the bold and courageous step of banning smoking in private vehicles.'
The British Heart Foundation said that it supports any legislation that protects children from second-hand smoke.
Maura Gillespie, the charity's head of policy and advocacy, noted: 'Passengers in smoke-filled cars, including children, breathe in more pollutants than anywhere else.
'There is already clear evidence that passive smoking increases the risk of a number of serious health problems.'
http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/interactive/news/smoking-ban-should-be-extended-to-cars--id801212442-t116.html
