The Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging anyone who smokes to make this October the month they quit for good by joining Stoptober and accessing free support services available across Northern Ireland.
Stoptober is the UK's biggest quit-smoking challenge and provides an opportunity for people to join thousands of others taking a positive step towards better health. Evidence shows that people who stop smoking for 28 days are much more likely to quit for good.
With more than 500 free PHA-funded Stop Smoking Services available through community pharmacies, GP practices, health trusts and community settings, support is available to help people every step of the way.
Doreen Regan, Health Improvement Officer with the PHA, said: "Stoptober is a great opportunity to take the first step towards becoming smoke free. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health, whatever your age and however long you have smoked.
"While stopping smoking can be challenging, you don't have to do it alone. Support is available in communities right across Northern Ireland, and people who use stop smoking services are much more likely to quit successfully than those who go it alone."
Smoking remains the leading preventable cause of ill-health and premature death in Northern Ireland, contributing to more than 2,000 deaths every year and placing significant pressure on health services.
Doreen continued: "Every cigarette damages health and every quit attempt matters. Many people make several attempts before they quit for good, so if you've tried before, don't be discouraged. Each attempt helps you learn what works for you and brings you closer to becoming smoke free.
"This year's Stoptober message is simple: let's quit smoking together. Whether that's with support from a stop smoking advisor, encouragement from friends and family, or by quitting alongside someone you know, having support can make a real difference."
The PHA is also highlighting the importance of the Tobacco and Vapes Act (TAVA), which aims to protect children and young people from the harms of tobacco addiction and create a smoke-free generation for the future. The legislation represents a landmark public health measure that will help ensure fewer young people ever start smoking.
Doreen added: "The Tobacco and Vapes Act is an important step towards a healthier future for our children and young people. However, it is equally important that we continue to support people who currently smoke.
"By quitting today, you can improve your health, save money, protect those around you from second-hand smoke and set a positive example for the next generation.”
Top tips for a successful quit attempt
- Set a quit date and stick to it.
- Think ahead and make a plan for managing cravings.
- Use stop smoking support and stop smoking medications if appropriate.
- Tell friends and family you're quitting and ask for their support.
- Keep busy and change routines linked to smoking.
- Focus on the benefits, including improved health, wellbeing and money saved.
Last year, over 9,500 people set a quit date through PHA-funded Stop Smoking Services, with almost six in ten reporting being smoke free four weeks later.
Doreen concluded: "There has never been a better time to quit. This Stoptober, take the first step and remember that support is available every step of the way. A smoke-free future starts with day one."
For more information on free stop smoking support, visit www.stopsmokingni.info
For more information on the tobacco and vapes Act, see the Department of Health’s news release, visit www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/minister-nesbitt-welcomes-landmark-tobacco-and-vapes-act