Five London boroughs have some of the highest smoking rates in England, according to data by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Ealing, Croyden, Barking and Dagenham, Harrow, and Camden all feature as among the ‘worst’ in England.

The number of smokers in the London Borough of Ealing has hit 22%, and ranks as the highest rate of any area in England. The borough has seen a 40% increase compared to the previous year, making Ealing 92% above the national average.

While smoking rates rank fourth and eighth highest in London, Harrow and Bromley have each seen rates more than double over the latest year – 112% and 117% respectively. The data raises concerns of direction of smoking rates, just four years away from the governments Smokefree by 2030 pledge.

The data was sourced from the Department of Health and Social Care’s ‘Fingertips Public Health Profiles’*, and collated by Vape Club in a campaign to encourage smoking cessation in the capital.

Croydon ranks second highest in London and eighth highest nationally, with a 17% smoking prevalence, representing a 26% rise compared to the previous year. Barking and Dagenham ranks third in London and tenth highest nationally, with a 16% smoking prevalence and a 22% increase from the previous year.

Camden ranks fifth in London and seventeenth nationally, with a 15% smoking prevalence and a 69% increase from the previous year.

Though the capital is a tale of two halves – areas in London with the lowest smoking prevalence are Redbridge, Waltham Forest, and Richmond upon Thames.

Redbridge has a smoking prevalence of 6.8%, showing a 40% decrease compared to previous figures. Waltham Forest follows closely with 6.6%, reflecting a 44% reduction. Richmond upon Thames has the lowest rate at 5.3%, with a 17% decline over the previous year, making these boroughs among the healthiest in London in terms of smoking.

Despite some areas seeing increases, London and the South East overall continue to show lower smoking rates than other regions.

According to ONS data, 11.9% of adults aged 18 and over smoke, the lowest national figure recorded since 2011.

Dan Marchant, smoking cessation expert and Director of Vape Club, says:

“Although smoking rates have generally declined across the UK, reaching their lowest levels on record, it’s concerning that certain areas have experienced a rise in smoking, according to the latest national data.

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

“The Office for Health Improvement and Disparities notes that vaping can significantly boost the chances of quitting. To address the recent rise in smoking, we must focus on clear, evidence-based education on the risks of vaping versus smoking, and support affected communities.”