Commit to Quit on World No Tobacco Day

It's never too late to get support to quit smoking

Next week, we join the World Health Organisation in encouraging Southampton smokers commit to quit smoking on Monday, 31 May, World No Tobacco Day. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health.

We're sharing stories on social media this Monday of local smokers on their quit journey and GPs like Dr Pritti Aggarwal. These quitters may be generations apart but are committed to the same goals: stop smoking to improve their health, save money and protect the health of those around them.

Cllr Ivan White, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, Southampton City Council, said: "If there is one thing we've learned from the pandemic, it's that our health is precious. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health, your wallet and the health of those around you."

Dr Pritti Aggarwal, Southampton GP Clinical Lead at NHS Hampshire, Southampton and Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group, said: "Sadly, 1 in 2 smokers die from illnesses caused by smoking. We are delighted that hundreds of people across Southampton have already stopped smoking. World No Tobacco Day is a great day to commit to enjoying life smoke-free."

You can learn more about support to quit smoking by visiting NHS Better Health Stop Smoking.

Or search ‘Smokefree NHS’ online to find a range of free quitting support including the Smokefree app, personal quit plan, Facebook and email support and advice. You can call the national helpline on 0300 123 1044.

Visit the council's stop smoking webpage for a list of local pharmacies where you can receive free, friendly support that can massively boost your chances of quitting for good. You're three times more likely to quit with support and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT).

We advise you call your preferred pharmacy as they might support people differently during this time.