Up in smoke

A new campaign was launched today encouraging smokers to quit with the help of the country’s national stop smoking helpline, Smokeline.  Smokeline 0800 848484 offers smokers tips on how to kick the habit and advice on how to stay a non-smoker.

A new Scottish Government-commissioned survey suggests that four in ten smokers are smoking at least 15 cigarettes a day, but only a quarter think that they are spending more than £1750 a year on their habit.  In fact the average annual cost of smoking 15 a day is £1916, so smokers are underestimating the true financial – never mind health – cost of smoking.  The survey reveals that more than half (55%) of smokers questioned are making an attempt to stop smoking as a New Year resolution and for the vast majority of these, health (81%) and money (70%) are the two top reasons for quitting.

Launching the campaign, Public Health Minister Michael Mathieson said:  “We know that the majority of people in Scotland want to stop, which is the biggest step someone can take to improve their health.  Quitting can reduce a person’s risk if having a heart attack or coronary heart disease and also enables people to make big savings when household budgets are under pressure – a new survey suggests many people underestimate the financial cost of smoking”.

He went on:  “Quitting is a common New Year resolution, but we know people are less likely to succeed if they go it alone.  Our new campaign tells smokers that they are more likely to succeed in making 2012 the year they quit for good by calling Smokeline for free on 0800 848484.  Smokeline can help people find the right quitting method to suit their lifestyle.  There’s a huge range of support available – from face-to-face or online to nicotine replacement therapy and group sessions – and Smokeline can help put people in the right direction”.

As part of this year’s campaign the Scottish Government is again teaming up with Scottish Slimmers to offer members advice and information on giving up smoking and Slimmers will receive a joining fees discount if they call Smokeline and take the first step toward a smoke free future.

A Scottish Government roadshow team will also visit locations across the country to inform and advise smokers who want to quit and a TV advertising campaign will highlight Smokeline services.

Local support is at hand too for smokers determined to kick the habit.  Contact your local GP surgery for more information – make 2012 the year you kick the habit!