Put your lungs first for Stoptober

Smokers in Blackburn with Darwen are being encouraged to put their lungs first, strengthen their immune system and breathe easier by taking part in Stoptober, which starts today (Thursday, October 1.)

With the coronavirus pandemic having made lots of people more concerned about staying healthy, and with flu season now approaching, now is be the perfect time to quit.

In Blackburn with Darwen, 95 people accessed local stop smoking services with a view to quitting since April 2020. During this period, 42 people have successfully stopped smoking for four weeks.

And with this year’s Stoptober being arguably the most important one yet, even more smokers are being encouraged to join over 2 million others who have made a quit attempt since 2012 with the annual campaign.

The benefits of stopping smoking, as well as healthier lungs, include a reduction in tension and anxiety and a cut to costs at a time of financial uncertainty.

Councillor Damian Talbot, Executive Member for Health and Wellbeing, said:

Smoking is harmful for our immune system and our ability to fight off infection and, with coronavirus still a big issue and flu season coming up, having good respiratory health is more important than ever.

During Stoptober you can explore some of the local support available through pharmacies and start to feel the health and financial benefits of becoming smokefree.

Stoptober provides the information and support people need to quit smoking for 28 days, based on research that if a smoker can make it to 28 days smokefree, they are five times more likely to quit for good.

Search ‘Stoptober’ now for a full range of quitting support options.

For more information about stop smoking services in Blackburn with Darwen visit the refresh website.

A list of participating pharmacies can be found here.