Over four-fifths
(82%) of adults in Yorkshire think smoking
is less socially acceptable than it was
at the start of the year, according to new
research from the NHS ‘Don’t
Give Up Giving Up’ campaign.
Currently, over a
quarter of people (28%) in Yorkshire are
smokers. However, the research also showed
that over half of all smokers across the
county (57%) are considering giving up smoking
in 2004.
The findings follow
a range of 2003 initiatives including a
tobacco advertising ban, stark new cigarette
pack warnings , a ban on light and mild
cigarette branding, and TV adverts on the
dangers of secondhand smoke.
And 26% of people
across Yorkshire think the 2003 changes
will make smokers more likely to quit, with
many saying it’s because smoking has
become less attractive, appealing or socially
acceptable.
John Soady of the
Sheffield NHS Stop Smoking Service said:
"General attitudes to smoking seem
to have shifted, and a lot of people are
contemplating giving up for 2004.
"We would urge
people considering quitting the habit to
call the Sheffield NHS Stop Smoking Service
on 0800 068 4490 for support. We offer free
support from specialist trained health professionals,
and Nicotene Replacement Therapy (NRT) on
prescription to help people quit and stay
stopped. Many people think they should be
strong enough to quit with willpower alone,
but probably don’t realise nicotine
is as addictive as heroin. The good news
is we are here to help."
John continued: "People
who contact the service get help tailored
to their needs. We provide an expert who
will guide them individually throughout
the whole quitting process – from
preparation to celebration! For example,
they can make sure the best forms of NRT
for the individual are used, based on how
often they smoke. The service also offers
practical ways to help keep up motivation.
And the programme is totally free."
"Giving up smoking
means that the individual is fitter, enjoys
better health and has more money to spend
on what they want."
To get free help
with stopping smoking in Sheffield please
call the freephone number on 0800 068 4490.
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