01.10.12
Stoptober campaign launched
National anti-smoking campaign ‘Stoptober’ launches today, aimed at encouraging smokers to quit for 28 days in October.
Research shows that if quitters stay cigarette free for 28 days, they are five times more likely to quit in the longer term. Participants are encouraged to think of the key areas where their lives will be improved – in health, wealth and self.
Quitters can experience the benefits of feeling more energetic and less stressed. The NHS has commented that stopping smoking has many advantages such as whiter teeth, better skin and healthier loved ones.
In the longer term, participants will reduce their risk of lung cancer and heart disease. One in two smokers will die prematurely as a result of smoking. Annually, 100,000 people die prematurely from smoking.
Celebrities such as the ex- footballer Ian Wright, Apprentice contestant Kate Walsh and make-up artist Gary Cockerill have backed the campaign. Stoptober mentor Ian Wright said: “Smoking is detrimental to our health and, not just for the smoker but, for all of those around them too.”
Participants will receive support throughout the campaign in the Facebook page, the downloadable App and a Stoptober support pack. To prepare for Stobtober, visit http://smokefree.nhs.uk/stoptober/.
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