Smokers are cutting back due to the economic downturn
New research released to mark No Smoking Day today shows more than one in three (36%) of the nine million smokers in Great Britain are thinking about or planning to cut down or quit as a direct result of the economic downturn. The poll also shows that one in ten (9%) will be taking the first step and making a quit attempt on No Smoking Day.
No Smoking Day President and Dragons’ Den star, Duncan Bannatyne, commented on the findings: "Everybody is feeling the pinch during the current recession.
"For smokers, who can spend over £2000 a year on cigarettes, it’s particularly tough, so for those who are ready to quit there has never been a better time."
Women are more likely to cut down or think about giving up (40% compared to 32% of male smokers). The report also found that 43% of smokers in Scotland and 33% of smokers in Wales are thinking about or planning to cut down or quit because of the recession and smokers in the Midlands are most likely to quit because of the recession
Almost three-quarters of smokers would like to quit and No Smoking Day is encouraging them to take the first step today by seeking advice from their local stop smoking service, GP or pharmacist.
Dan Tickle, Chief Executive of the No Smoking Day charity said: "Giving up cigarettes will boost your bank balance - but the health benefits are even greater, including easier breathing, improved fitness and healthier hair, nails and skin. It’s a fact that quitters also notice they have more energy after only a matter of days.
"By choosing No Smoking Day to quit, smokers will be joining a million others taking the first step to a healthier - and wealthier life. And you don’t have to quit alone. You’re four times more likely to succeed if you use a free NHS Stop Smoking Service."
Gemma Bissix, ex-Eastenders star and Dancing on Ice celebrity, who recently stopped smoking with the help of her local NHS Stop Smoking Service and supports No Smoking Day said: "There’s only one piece of advice that I’d give to someone who wants to get fit for summer - quit smoking! So why not use No Smoking Day on 11 March to kick start you new healthy living? I stopped smoking with the support of my local NHS Stop Smoking Service."