The number of people having to be hospitalised for heart attacks, stroke and asthma fell significantly worldwide after smoke-free laws were introduced, new research indicates.

US scientists carried out a detailed analysis of 45 studies, which covered 33 smoke-free laws introduced in the US and various countries around the world, including Ireland, Scotland, Germany and New Zealand.

They found that the introduction of smoke-free legislation was quickly followed by a 24% fall in respiratory-related hospitalisations, including COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and asthma.

These laws were also quickly followed by a 16% fall in stroke hospitalisations and a 15% fall in heart attack hospitalisations.

Furthermore, the biggest health benefits were found to be in places where the new laws were most comprehensive. i.e. those covering workplaces, including pubs.

Smoking has been banned in all workplaces in Ireland, including pubs and restaurants, since 2004.

The study also noted that as a result of these fewer hospitalisations, smoke-free laws also lead to ‘lower healthcare expenditures for a wide range of diseases'.

"The general public, public health professionals and policy makers should consider these positive associations as they develop smoke-free legislation and decide whether or not to include exceptions to these laws," the scientists concluded.

Details of these findings are published in the journal, Circulation.