A new NHS campaign was started today to raise awareness of an invisible killer.

The 'Don't Give Up Giving Up' campaign found that 60 per cent of smokers go ahead and light up without asking for permission, despite the fact that most non-smokers mind if other people are smoking nearby.

The campaign also highlights the fact that second-hand smoke is a killer and makes breathing problems worse for asthma sufferers.

It is the first time the NHS has addressed the issue of smoking in relation to adults within the home.

It comes in advance of the Government considering a smoke-free law. It is proposing to make it illegal to light up in pubs which serves food.

But many health experts and campaigners - including the Telegraph & Argus Clear the Air campaign - are calling for a total ban on smoking in all enclosed public places.

Caroline Flint, public health minister said: "It is clear that both smokers and non-smokers don't appreciate the full dangers of second hand smoke.

"Tobacco smoke contains around 4,000 different chemicals, including 50 known cancer causing substances such as arsenic, formaldehyde and ammonia.

"By ignoring these facts and smoking round others they are putting them at serious risk of increased disease."

Madge Boyle, Bradford District Health Development Partnerships Tobacco Programme Manager, said: "I welcome this campaign that highlights the risks of exposure to second-hand smoke within the home environment.

"In 1998, the Scientific Committee on Tobacco and Health (SCOTH) found that long term exposure to other people's smoke can increase the risk of lung cancer by 20 to 30 per cent and increases the risk of heart disease by 25 per cent in those people who live with a smoker.

"Indeed babies and children are especially affected by second-hand smoke and its harmful effects.

"This campaign supports the Smoke Free Homes initiative that we have launched in the Bradford district. This initiative enables parents to sign up and make a 'promise' to make their homes smoke-free zones to protect their health and their children's health."

To make a smoke-free homes promise or for advice and support with stopping smoking contact the NHS Stop Smoking Service in Bradford on (01274) 363559.

l The British Medical Association said today the Government's anti-smoking campaign smacked of double standards if it did not take action to protect the health of all workers from second-hand smoke.

Dr Vivienne Nathanson, BMA head of science, said: "Education campaigns must be backed up with policy. The Government is the guardian of the public's health - actions speak louder than words."