Decline in aids to help people quit smoking

A report published today by the British Lung Foundation highlights a sharp decline in stop smoking aids being prescribed by GPS and pharmacists weeks after the Scottish Government announced new plans to create a “smoke-free” generation in Scotland by 2034.

“Less help to quit: What’s happening to stop smoking prescriptions across Britain” also highlights the lack of clear data for prescription of these treatments in the last two years.

The findings include a 40 per cent drop in stop smoking aids prescribed between 2012-2013 and 2014-15 across Scotland. Over the same period, the number of smokers fell by 4 per cent – well below the decrease in prescription of stop smoking aids.

Thebritishlungfoundation is calling on the Scottish Government to ensure stop smoking budgets are protected in real terms over the next five years. Joseph Carter, head of British Lung Foundation Scotland, said: “Our research shows that the Scottish Government’s proposals to curb tobacco use do not reflect the reality of the options on offer for smokers who want to kick the habit.

“The steep decline in the use of nicotine replacement therapy drugs by NHS Scotland over two years is deeply concerning. The Scottish Government has ramped up the rhetoric on curbing tobacco use, but our report demonstrates cuts are being made to prescribing effective treatments that do just that.”