Quit smoking for your loved ones this Valentine’s Day

The most romantic day of the year is just around the corner and we are calling on smokers in the county to show their loved ones how much they care about them this Valentine’s Day by quitting smoking.

It comes as major research revealed the smoking ban, which came into force in England in 2007, has significantly reduced the number of hospital admissions for heart disease as a result of passive smoking. In particular, it’s thought the reduced exposure to second-hand smoke has reduced heart attack rates by up to 42% across the UK.

The Cochrane collaboration reviewed the results of 77 studies carried out in 21 countries across the world. One of the pieces of research examined by the team was a Scottish study, which found hospital admissions for heart-related health problems fell by 21% amongst non-smokers following the introduction of Scotland’s smoking ban.

Henry Tapp, who heads up our stop smoking services, said: “Many smokers don’t realise the impact their habit has on their loved ones. Second-hand smoke can contain up to 4,000 harmful chemicals which can increase their partners’ risk of developing heart disease and cancer. It can also increase the risk of asthma and cot death in children.

“This research shows that kicking the habit really does have a huge impact on not only the health and wellbeing of the smoker, but the health and wellbeing of their family too. Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show your family how much you love them and take the first steps towards a smoke-free future.”

As the county’s healthy lifestyle service, we offer free support to help people quit smoking. For more information phone us 01473 229292.