BMJ  2008;336:330 (9 February), doi:10.1136/bmj.39479.677188.BD

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We need better data on smoking in pregnancy

¹ Good Hope Hospital, Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, West Midlands

Feature, doi: 10.1136/bmj.39455.496146.AD

The first 150 words of the full text of this article appear below.

My work as a smoking cessation midwife involved me directly with the initial national target to reduce smoking in pregnancy from 23% in 1995 to 18% by 2005 and now to 15% by 2010. An additional requirement is to reduce the rate of mothers who are smoking at delivery by 1% year on year, specifically focusing on disadvantaged women to tackle inequalities in infant mortality. There is considerable pressure to meet this target, which the Healthcare Commission is monitoring. Reducing smoking in pregnancy is also a health objective for Sure Start Children’s Centres.

The 1% annual target was set centrally but has not been discussed with key stakeholders involved in its implementation. These stakeholders are now concerned by how realistic the target is and whether it is achievable within the required time scale. How was the target derived? Why has good practice guidance not been issued in support? Each primary . . . [Full text of this article]

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