Deborah Arnott recently concluded her 21-year tenure as CEO of Action on Smoking & Health (ASH), leaving behind a legacy of significant achievements in the fight against Big Tobacco. Under her leadership, ASH successfully campaigned for numerous public health measures, including the banning of smoking in public places, the prohibition of tobacco displays in retail settings, and standardised packaging with graphic health warnings. Arnott’s efforts contributed to a marked decline in smoking rates, as evidenced by reductions in hospital admissions for heart attacks and childhood asthma following new regulations. Despite fierce opposition from the tobacco industry, Arnott’s strategic advocacy helped enact policies that have reshaped public attitudes towards smoking in the UK.

Throughout her career, Arnott faced formidable challenges from the tobacco lobby, which often sought to undermine public health initiatives. However, her commitment to evidence-based policy and her ability to galvanise public and governmental support proved crucial in overcoming these obstacles. As vaping emerged as a popular alternative to smoking, Arnott’s stance emphasised its role as a less harmful option for adults while advocating for measures to curb youth vaping. Her strategic shift in supporting vaping as a smoking cessation tool was noted as “arguably [her] greatest achievement in the past decade” (Read more at: Taking Liberties).

On No Smoking Day 2022, Arnott was quoted saying, “No one should give up on giving up. Every time someone tries to stop smoking, they are a step closer to success” (Read more at: ASH News). This underscores her commitment to encouraging smokers to quit and the importance of professional support in cessation efforts.

Her departure marks the end of a transformative era for ASH, with her influence extending beyond national borders as a respected voice in tobacco control. For more details, visit The Grocer.