Will anyone take up this challenge?
Smokers in Derbyshire are being challenged to take part in national 'Stoptober' month, which begins on 1 October, is being backed by Derbyshire County Council's public health team.
There are almost 114,000 smokers who live in Derbyshire. Smoking is the nation's biggest killer with half of long-term smokers dying prematurely from a smoking-related illness.
Evidence shows that if a smoker can go 28 days without a cigarette they are five times more likely to give up permanently. And research suggests that smokers can gain up to seven days of life for every 28 they remain smokefree. Last year 3,504 people had given up smoking quit after the month-long campaign.
While smoking across the country is falling steadily, it is still the biggest cause of premature death causing more than 80,000 deaths in England every year.
Derbyshire County Stop Smoking Service can help and support any anyone wanting to stop smoking. There is a telephone support service where smokers will get a call from an advisor once a week − ideal for people who are unable to attend a clinic regularly. There are also drop-in sessions and one-to-one support available from local pharmacies and GP practices.
Derbyshire County Council Cabinet Member for Health and Communities Councillor Dave Allen said:
"It's vital that when someone has made the decision to give up smoking that they have all the support they need. "
It's not an easy thing to do so the help, support and advice that Derbyshire County Stop Smoking Service can give is all the more important in giving people everything they need to break the habit for good".
Be part of the challenge. For help and support call Derbyshire County Stop Smoking Service on 0800 085 22 99 or 01246 515153, text 'Easy' to 80800 or visit
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