Smoking rates fall in Darlington
The number of smokers in Darlington is falling.
Smoking prevalence in the borough is now the second lowest in the region, and lower than the UK average. Referrals to local stop smoking services continue to increase, and more people than ever are benefitting from kicking the habit.
However, nearly 8% of local people (1 in 13) continue to smoke and are at risk of developing cancer and other smoking related diseases.
This Stoptober, Darlington Borough Council is urging smokers to make a fresh start and kick the habit for good.
Darlington Stop Smoking Hub, which is commissioned by the council, offers free advice, guidance and evidence-based support to help people on their journey to becoming smoke-free. They also provide a range of free quitting products including medication, vapes and Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) to those making a quit attempt.
Latest data shows that nearly two thirds of those receiving support from the hub, who have set a quit date, are smoke free within four weeks - a powerful sign that with the right help, you can ditch the cigarettes and enjoy the freedom of being a nonsmoker.
Appointments with the hub can be face to face or via telephone. Visit www.darlington.gov.uk and search ‘smoking’ or tel. 0800 802 1850.
Support is also available via the NHS Smoke Free app.
Lorraine Hughes, director of public health at the council said "Quitting smoking is the single best action you can take for better health. Within weeks, you’ll breathe easier, feel more energetic, and lower your risk of serious illnesses like cancer, heart attack, stroke, and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
"Many people also report feeling calmer, happier, and less anxious just a few weeks after quitting. It’s better for your bank balance too and could save you over £2,000 a year!"
Cllr Stephen Harker, leader of Darlington Borough Council, added "We are committed to making sure people living in Darlington live longer in good health and are delighted with the great progress being made across the borough. However, there is a need to go further and faster.
"Smoking is the single largest driver of health inequalities and up to two thirds of smokers who don't quit will die of a smoking related illness. There is also strong evidence to suggest smoking increases risks of dementia and just one cigarette a day increases the risks of heart attack and stroke.
"Our friendly local stop smoking services are here to help you quit for good - giving you the best advice on how to kick the habit and ease your cravings. Even if you've been unsuccessful in the past - please don’t give up; your next quit attempt could be the one that works and changes your life. It’s never too late!”