Stoptober, the NHS public health campaign which supports people to quit smoking in the month of October, is back for its 11th year.
Statistically, if you can make it to 28 days smoke-free, you are five times more likely to quit for good.
Smoking causes at least 15 different types of cancer and remains the single biggest cause of preventable illness and death in England. As a result of these health issues associated with smoking, it costs the NHS £2.4 billion a year.
Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England Dr Jeanelle de Gruchy urged people to give up smoking and participate in Stoptober as it is ‘one of the best things you can do for your health.’
Strictly Come Dancing professional backs campaign
James Jordan, a professional dancer on the beloved BBC show Strictly Come Dancing, has showed his support for Stoptober, whilst opening up about his own experience with quitting smoking.
Jordan was a smoker for 27 years and recently quit, despite doubting himself and his ability to do so.
He said: ‘I consider myself a confident person in most areas of my life, but have always faltered with smoking, so thought I wouldn’t be able to quit. I smoked for 27 years. My quitting journey has shown me that I am more capable than I thought, thanks to the support of my own family and friends and the professional help I sought.’
Stoptober quitting tips
Stoptober supports people on their journey to stop smoking in many ways. You can sign up for 28 days of stop smoking advice and tips sent straight to your inbox, and can also give the National Smokefree Helpline a call to talk to a trained advisor for support and advice.
The number, which is England only, is available Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm, and 11am to 4pm on the weekend. Give the line a call on 0300 123 1044.
You can also download the NHS Quit Smoking app which allows you to track your progress, see how much you’re saving by quitting, and get daily support.
The NHS website provides a list of top tips for quitting which include: listing your reasons to quit, telling people you’re quitting, using stop smoking aids, having a plan if you are tempted to smoke, listing your smoking triggers and working out how to avoid them, keeping cravings at bay by keeping busy, exercising away the urge, and joining the Facebook group.