Stoptober: Join Thousands of Others Getting Ready to Quit Smoking

Stoptober is back!

Every October, thousands of people aim to go a month smoke-free – making it 5 times more likely they will give up for good.

Most people try to quit smoking using willpower alone – which is proven to be the least effective way. Stoptober has the information, motivation and support to help you quit for good.

Since launching in 2012, more than 2.5 million people have attempted to quit smoking during October.

Why it’s Important

More than five million people in England still smoke. Smoking is the single biggest cause of preventable illness and death.

Here are some figures:

2 out of 3 smokers will die from smoking unless they quit
Smoking causes 64,000 deaths every year in England
On average, smokers die ten years younger than non-smokers
The NHS spends £1.9 billion every year treating smoking-related diseases

The Benefits of Quitting

Quitting smoking is the best thing you can do for your health. When you stop, you’ll start feeling better almost straight away.

Here’s what can happen after your last cigarette:

After 20 minutes, your pulse will be returning to normal
Eight hours later, your oxygen levels are recovering, and the carbon monoxide in your blood has halved
Within 48 hours, your smell and taste will improve. Your body has flushed out all carbon monoxide
You’ll be breathing easier and feeling more energetic after 72 hours
Between 2-12 weeks, your blood is pumping to your heart and muscles better
Three to nine months later, your lungs are already working 10% better, reducing your coughing and wheezing
A year from your last cigarette, your risk of a heart attack has halved
After 10 years, your risk of dying from lung cancer is 50% lower
By 15 years smoke-free, your risk of a heart attack is no higher than someone who has never smoked

The average cost of a packet of cigarettes is £15.84. Most smokers spend around £59.54 on tobacco every week. Quitting for a year could save you as much as £3,000.

There is also research that shows people who have given up smoking for a year are happier, with lower levels of anxiety, depression and stress.