Smokers across Swindon, Wiltshire, Bath and North East Somerset, are being urged to reclaim their health and improve their quality of life by quitting this No Smoking Day on 12th March.
With one in ten adults in the region smoking regularly, an estimated 100,000 local people are putting themselves at risk of serious health issues, including cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
Each cigarette smoked is thought to shave around 20 minutes off a person’s life, which means a typical 20-a-day smoker could be cutting their lifespan short by more than six and a half hours every single day.
Dr Barry Coakley, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, stressed the importance of taking action: “Stopping smoking is the best thing people can do for their health, and it’s never too late to quit. The benefits to health and wellbeing, such as reduced blood pressure and improved circulation, begin almost immediately. Anyone thinking about quitting this No Smoking Day should know that support is available through local councils or the free NHS Quit Smoking App, which provides personal quit plans and advice on stop-smoking aids like vapes.”
Aside from the obvious health benefits, quitting smoking can also lead to significant financial savings. The average person who quits smoking can expect to save around £2,500 in their first year – money that could be better spent on holidays, home improvements, or simply easing day-to-day expenses.
Help is available in all areas of Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire:
- Swindon: Information on local stop-smoking services, including access to a stop-smoking coach, can be found at www.swindon.gov.uk/info/20139/live_well_swindon.
- Wiltshire: Residents can access six months of free support through the Smoke Free app by visiting www.wiltshire.gov.uk/smokefree.
- Bath and North East Somerset: Visit www.bathneshealthandcare.nhs.uk or call 0300 247 0050 for advice and support.
The NHS’s Better Health website also offers a wide range of resources to support those looking to quit. From motivational emails and personalised quit plans to local support groups and advice on transitioning to vapes, there’s a solution for everyone – whether you’re quitting for the first time or giving it another go.
More information on the health risks associated with smoking, as well as practical support, can be found at www.nhs.uk/live-well/quit-smoking.
This No Smoking Day could be the perfect opportunity to break free from cigarettes and start living a healthier, longer life.
