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<p>Smoking is responsible for approximately 80,000 deaths a year in the United Kingdom
and causes around one in four UK cancer deaths. It also costs society £21.8 billion
a year and puts a huge burden on the National Health Service. The latest estimates
from Action on Smoking and Health put the cost of smoking to the NHS and social care
at £3 billion a year.</p><p>As part of our impact assessment, we reviewed evidence
and data from a range of countries. This included modelling from New Zealand, Singapore,
and the Solomon Islands on the estimated impact of a smokefree generation policy on
smoking prevalence, smoking attributable mortality, and other health impacts. We also
considered evidence and data from countries that have already implemented an increase
in the age of sale for tobacco to a particular age. For example, we analysed data
and evidence from the United States on the impact that raising the age of sale from
18 to 21 years old had on smoking prevalence.</p><p>This was in addition to considering
evidence and data from the UK on the impact that previous increases in the age of
sale for tobacco have had on smoking prevalence. A copy of our Tobacco and Vapes Bill
- impact assessment is attached.</p>
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