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WASHINGTON - Bans on smoking in public places, by reducing passive smoking, can decrease the risk of heart attacks by an average of 17 per cent, according to a new US and European study.
The study, which examined the effects of smoking bans in regions across the United States and several countries in Europe, including Italy and Scotland, was published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.
It found bans in smoking in places including cafes and bars produced an overall 17 per cent decrease in the risk of acute myocardial infarction - more commonly known as a heart attack - with a particular reduction in the risks to the young and non-smokers.
In the United States, 32 states have passed laws banning smoking in public spaces and work places.
According to the study, passive smoking - the inhalation of second-hand smoke - can produce a 30 per cent increase in the risk of acute myocardial infarction.
- AFP/rs
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