Leeds smokers urged to quit on National No Smoking Day

Today (Wednesday 10 March) is National No Smoking Day and to mark this annual event representatives from Leeds City Council and One You Leeds are promoting the benefits of becoming smoke free and stopping smoking for good.

In the past year, One You Leeds – the city’s stop smoking service - has seen a significant increase in the number of people accessing support. Meanwhile nationally, over half a million people have made a quit attempt since the COVID-19 outbreak.

Smokers risk a range of serious long-term health problems.

Most importantly at this time, smoking impairs lung function, making it more difficult for the body to fight off diseases such as COVID 19. Furthermore, the repetitive hand-to-mouth motion associated with smoking provides an easy route of entry, putting smokers at greater risk of contracting the virus.

Wider health benefits of stopping smoking include improved circulation, breathing and mental health – as well as a significantly reduced risk of cancer.

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for public health, said: “Smoking still remains the leading cause of premature mortality and morbidity in the UK, - with one out of every 2 smokers dying from smoking-related diseases. I’m proud to say local smoking rates have fallen considerably since 2011, however they’re still above the national average so tackling the issue remains a key public health priority in Leeds.

“Our message to smokers this No smoking Day is that every attempt counts, so keep trying and take pride in each one, because the next one can be the one that changes your life forever.”

Victoria Eaton, Leeds City Council’s Director of Public Health, added: “We’re delighted with the increased demand for our One You Leeds stop smoking service. COVID-19 is making everyone much more concerned about staying healthy, and for many people this will mean getting the support they need to stop. Stopping smoking is still one of the most important ways to improve your own health, and protect those closest to you.

“Evidence shows you’re up to 3 times more likely to quit with expert help and advice from a service like One You and we'll continue to ensure there's support for people in Leeds on their journey to quitting via One You Leeds."

National No Smoking Day aims to inform smokers that quitting can be less stressful than they fear and can ultimately improve their sense of wellbeing. We all have less control over our lives than we’d like at the moment, but smokers can take some positive control on No Smoking Day.

For dedicated help and support in Leeds, visit www.oneyouleeds.co.uk or call 0800 169 4219.