The percentage of Fife 15 year olds regularly smoking is amongst the highest in Scotland, according to a recently released Scottish Government survey.
Regular smoking by 15 year olds ranges from 5% to 13% across Scottish local authorities. It is most common in Falkirk, Argyll and Bute, and Fife, and least common in Eilean Siar, Dundee City and Aberdeen City.
According to the research around 804 15 year olds in the Kingdom regularly spark up, which although down on 2010, still represents a significant number.
Murdo has called on schools and health boards to work in cooperation to make sure youngsters are not only aware of the risks associated with smoking but also what help is available for those looking to kick the habit.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“Smoking is still a huge public health issue and despite recent progress the Scottish Government is still struggling to stop youngsters sparking up.
“This report indicates that a fairly high percentage of Fife 15 year olds are regular smokers, and I would like to see more done locally to help prevent youngsters from taking it up.
“Smoking can stunt growth and can cause a number of respiratory related health problems for those under the age of 18 and I would encourage the authorities to up their game when educating these facts to teenagers.
“Furthermore, making young people aware of the availability of stop smoking services will be important in the battle to help people kick the habit and I would encourage schools, health boards and Fife Council to increase the profile of these services.”