Smoking rates in Essex fall to lowest level on record
The share of adults who smoke has dropped from 11% to 9.2%
Smoking rates in Essex have fallen to their lowest level on record, according to Essex County Council.
The council said the latest three-year figures show the number of adults who smoke has dropped from 11% to 9.2%.
It said the fall reflects the contribution of support services across Essex in helping people to quit.
The council said the figures bring the county a step closer to its ambition of becoming smoke-free by 2030.
Where smoking rates remain higher
The council said there is more to do.
It said smoking rates remain higher in some of Essex's most deprived communities.
Support to quit
Support to quit smoking is available through the Essex Wellbeing Service.
It includes:
- free stop-smoking aids and signposting for newer medications if appropriate
- one-to-one behaviour-change coaching to support people throughout their quit journey and help identify and manage smoking triggers
- free access to the online Allen Carr Easyway course
What the council has said
Councillor Chris Hossack, Cabinet Member for Residents and Community Services at Essex County Council, said: "These latest figures are promising and show how stop smoking services in Essex are making a difference.
"Every person who quits smoking is taking an important step towards a healthier future. We are proud of the progress made so far, but we know there is still more to do, particularly in communities where smoking rates remain highest.
"We will continue working with our partners to ensure people can access the support they need to quit for good."