It’s the time of year again when we’re all looking to kick off our New Year resolutions. Getting fit and eating more healthily top most people’s lists, but quitting smoking isn’t far behind.
Smokers across the borough who are looking to quit can pick up a free ‘quit card’ from their local pharmacy or GP Practice to help them find the right support to help them to stop smoking – and stick to it.
“When it comes to stopping smoking, there’s no ‘one size fits all’ approach” explains Dr Chris Elliott, Chief Clinical Officer of NHS Sutton CCG. “What works for one person doesn’t necessarily work for another. The quit cards enable smokers to look at the support options available and find the right combination that meets their needs, with advice and support from their GP and local pharmacist.”
“We all know that smoking is bad for our health and is linked to a whole range of potentially fatal diseases, including cancer, heart disease and respiratory conditions. It is responsible for one in every five deaths in adults aged over 35 in England, and half of all long-term smokers will die prematurely due to a smoking-related disease. Around 15 per cent of adults in Sutton smoke, which is lower than the London average (17.0 per cent) but still higher than some of our neighbouring boroughs.”
However, quitting is never easy – and that’s where your local NHS smoking cessation service can help.
If you’re interested in finding out more about stopping smoking, pop into your local pharmacy or make an appointment with your GP to discuss the best way forward.
Local stop smoking services are also available by visiting the LiveWell Sutton website or calling 0208 251 0606. For more details go to NON SMOKING