Smokers Urged To 'Make March Your Month To Quit'

The Public Health Agency (PHA) and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland are encouraging smokers to quit during No Smoking Month this March. They are highlighting the range of free support services available to help people kick the habit.

Smoking remains the biggest preventable cause of ill health, disability, and death in Northern Ireland, responsible for approximately 35,000 hospital admissions and 2,200 deaths annually.

"March is No Smoking Month and a fantastic opportunity to make the commitment to stop smoking and improve your health," said Colette Rogers, Strategic Lead for Tobacco Control with the PHA. "Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do to improve your health and protect people around you from harmful second-hand smoke. Quitting will also save you money, which is significant as people face tough times with the increased cost of living. You might have tried quitting before, but this March, try again and get support on your journey to healthier you with the help of a PHA-funded Stop Smoking service as it really will make a difference."

In 2023/24, 9,196 people reportedly set a quit date through smoking cessation services in Northern Ireland. The PHA funds a range of free services available through community pharmacies, GP practices, HSC Trust premises, community and voluntary organisations, and Cancer Focus NI.

Naomi Thompson, Health Improvement Manager at Cancer Focus NI, emphasised the importance of seeking support. "Studies have shown that people are four times more likely to quit with help," she said. "We would encourage any smoker who is ready to quit, or even curious about giving it a go, to make March their month. Across Northern Ireland specialists are available to provide free tried and tested tips to make quitting as easy as possible. You will be supported to cope with cravings, managing stress, avoiding weight gain and developing a healthy lifestyle. You don't have to do this on your own."

Top tips for quitting smoking:

• Make a date to give up – and stick to it!

• Make a plan. Think about what could help you stop smoking, such as using a nicotine replacement product, and have it ready before the date you plan to stop.

• Get support from your local Stop Smoking Service. Also, let your family and friends know that you're quitting. Some people find that talking to friends and relatives who have stopped can be helpful.

• Keep busy to help take your mind off cigarettes. Try to change your routine, (and plan alternative activities for places you associate with smoking) and avoid the shop where you normally buy cigarettes.

• Remind yourself that the money saved now from not smoking can be used for other things you or your family want or need.

No Smoking Month is coordinated in Northern Ireland by Cancer Focus NI and includes a partnership with the PHA, the Healthy Living Centres Alliance, Health and Social Care Trusts, local councils, and community champions in Health Living Centres.

For more information on the services available and useful tips to stop smoking, visit www.cancerfocusni.org/stopsmoking or www.stopsmokingni.info