Today (26th March 2026) marks the 20th anniversary of the landmark smoking ban in Scotland, a bold and visionary public health intervention that has protected millions from the harmful effects of second-hand smoke.
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation (AAF) is marking this milestone as a defining moment in improving the lives of people living with asthma – particularly children and young people, who are most vulnerable to poor air quality.
Over the past 20 years, the legislation has:
- Reduced exposure to second-hand smoke in public places
- Contributed to fewer respiratory-related hospital admissions
- Increased public awareness of the dangers of smoking
For adults living with asthma, the ban has created safer workplaces and public environments, supporting better management of their condition.
For children and young people, it has helped protect developing lungs, reduce asthma attacks, and improve long-term health outcomes.
However, significant challenges remain.
Asthma continues to be a life-threatening and life-limiting condition affecting thousands across Scotland, with preventable deaths still occurring each year.
Martina Chukwuma-Ezike, CEO of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation, said:
“The smoking ban was a landmark moment that has saved lives and improved air quality across Scotland. For people living with asthma, it has been transformative. But 20 years on, we must not lose momentum.”
“Too many people are still living with poorly controlled asthma, and too many children remain exposed to harmful triggers, including in-door smoking. We now need to build on this legacy by prioritising prevention, improving access to asthma right care, and ensuring that every person with asthma receives the support they need to live well with their condition.”
Asthma and Allergy Foundation is calling for renewed action to:
- A shift from reactive care to prevention first
- Intensify smoking cessation efforts
- Protect children from second-hand smoke exposure
- Make preventer inhaler use the norm across Scotland
- Protect every child and adult from avoidable triggers & needless hospital admissions/deaths.
As Scotland reflects on this milestone, Asthma and Allergy Foundation urges policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities to go further to ensure Asthma Training is embedded into Mainstream First Aid & Health & Safety Training so everyone living with asthma in Scotland is supported to breathe better and live a full live. eLearning can be accessed here: www.asthmaandallergyelearning.org.uk/membership-join
Call now on 01224973001, info@asthmaandallergy.org.uk or visit www.asthmaandallergy.org.uk
