Health board support for quit smoking fight

NHS Lanarkshire is continuing to support residents of Airdrie and Coatbridge in their fight to quit smoking during the coronavirus pandemic.

Quit Your Way is a free stop smoking service, where trained and friendly advisers can be contacted in line with Covid-19 restrictions via freephone or live web chat.

Monklands residents can also request to be posted an information pack about quitting.

Those who begin their quit journey feel the benefits almost straight away and will be in a better position to deal with any illness which affects breathing and lungs.

Shirley Mitchell, tobacco control programme manager for NHS Lanarkshire, said: “Giving up smoking is not something people have to do on their own and this service is available for those who have any queries in regards to stopping smoking.

“Whilst face to face support cannot be provided at this time, telephone-based support can be just as effective.

“And there has never been a more important time to support people who smoke, both to quit and reduce harm from the exposure to second hand smoke.

“I understand that giving up smoking is not an easy thing to do, especially during such challenging times. To keep safe, please do not share tobacco products and wash your hands thoroughly before and after smoking to minimise the risk of infection.”

People who smoke are more likely to get more serious symptoms if they catch coronavirus.

Smoking is known to cause or considerably worsen breathing problems, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It can also harm the immune system and heart.

The Quit Your Way service can be contacted on Monday to Friday, between the hours of 9am and 5pm.

To find out further information about the stop smoking services and access the best support to quit in your area, call the helpline on 0800 84 84 84 or visit Quityourway.scot.

People can also visit their local community pharmacy for free stop smoking support and advice from staff.