Quit and Win campaign aims to help smokers kick the habit for good

If a person who smokes decides to make a New Year’s resolution to quit by No Smoking Day on March 8, not only will it benefit their health...they could also save in the region of £350.

Sheila Duffy, ASH Scotland chief executive, said: “Around two thirds of adults who smoke in Scotland say they wish they had never started so what better time than now to make a fresh start by deciding to quit?

“Don’t be discouraged if you’ve tried to quit before. It can often take a number of attempts but it is the best thing you can do for your health, finances and for those around you.

“Whether you’re ready to stop or just beginning to think about it, Quit Your Way Scotland can help. There is no one way to quit smoking but the best way to stop and remain smoke free is by reaching out for person-centred support that is available for free.”

Quitting is one of the biggest proactive steps people who smoke can take to quickly improve health and general well-being, and reduce the risk of longer term smoking-related illness.

Sheila added: “Just 20 minutes after you stop smoking, your heart rate drops to a healthier rate. Circulation improves, and your lung function increases between two and 12 weeks afterwards. After one year, your risk of coronary heart disease is about half that of a smoker’s. After 10 years, the risk of lung cancer falls to half that of someone who still smokes.

“Contacting Quit Your Way Scotland will give you the confidence and tools you need to make the best possible start to the New Year.”

Contact Quit Your Way Scotland by visiting www.QuitYourWay.Scot or the free helpline on 0800 848484.

* The costs of smoking falls most heavily on people in communities that are struggling against poverty and inequality, with evidence showing that residents in Scotland’s most deprived areas are considerably more likely to smoke than those in affluent areas.

The harm caused by tobacco is a major factor in the life expectancy gap of 13 years for men and 10 years for women between those people living in the most and least deprived areas.