Majority of East Yorkshire and Northern Lincolnshire smokers wish they could quit

According to research by the Centre for Excellence, a regional public health programme, 68% of smokers in Humber and North Yorkshire wish they did not smoke.

Humber and North Yorkshire councils are promoting Stoptober as a prime opportunity to quit, with free support available from local stop smoking services and the Smoke Free app.

The survey revealed that nearly half of smokers find the idea of quitting daunting, yet more than half can envision themselves as ex-smokers.

Almost one in five adults registered with GPs in Hull are smokers, according to the latest figures.

Dr Emma Hardy, GP and Public Health Specialty Registrar, emphasised the availability of support for those looking to quit smoking.

She said: “I want people to know that they don’t have to tackle quitting alone."

Dr Hardy encourages individuals to explore various support options, including digital tools and guidance from stop smoking advisers.

Smoking is the leading cause of preventable illness and death, responsible for around 2,500 premature deaths and over 18,000 hospital admissions in the region annually.

Despite a decline in smoking rates to 11.7% in 2024, approximately 173,000 adults in Humber and North Yorkshire still smoke.

Residents can access six months' free app features to manage cravings, track health improvements, and converse with a stop smoking expert at any time.

The campaign also offers stop smoking aids, such as nicotine replacement therapy and vapes, valued up to £300 overall.