The impact of smoking on mortality is widely documented via a multitude of epidemiological evidence (e.g. Doll and Peto 2004, Pirie et al., 2012).  A "Smoking Index" aims to provide some ongoing, regular measurement of this key mortality barometer.  

 

In particular, around

 

• 36% of all deaths due to respiratory diseases

• 29% of all cancer deaths were attributable to smoking.

• 14% of deaths due to circulatory diseases

• 5% of deaths due to diseases of the digestive system 

 

were attributable to smoking.

 

Source: Statistics on Smoking: England 2011; The Health and Social Care Information Centre.

We are currently exploring the feasibility of a Smoking Index which could lead to uses including a more prospective longevity modelling approach which provides a strong signal for future manifestations in mortality rate data.

 

 

 

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