National No Smoking Day

Help quitting available in your local pharmacy

13 February 2024: With close to half a million people in Ireland smoking every day the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) is encouraging smokers to ask for help to quit in their local pharmacy. Marking National No Smoking Day (14 February) the IPU has said that a consultation with a pharmacist can significantly increase any individual’s chance of quitting for good.

IPU spokesperson Sinead McCool said, “Quitting smoking is incredibly advantageous for your health and with supports from your local pharmacy team, is entirely achievable. Within a week an individual’s carbon monoxide levels and breathing will have improved. Within a year the risk of developing coronary artery disease is halved when compared to a continuing smoker. Quitting can add as much as 10 years to your life expectancy as well as reducing the risk for many conditions including a range of cancers, cardiovascular diseases and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

“According to the last census almost a million people have now quit smoking. So, it is possible, but as many people who have been through the process will realise it is not easy. Whether this is your first time attempting to quit or you have previously been unsuccessful a visit to your pharmacy is a valuable first step.

“Research has consistently shown that receiving professional advice can improve the chances of successfully quitting. Pharmacists are very experienced at providing Nicotine Cessation Treatment plans and can work closely with you to identify the best ways to help you quit.”

Concluding Ms McCool said, “it is never too late to quit smoking. Even if you have been unsuccessful in the past taking the brave decision this Ash Wednesday, could have a significant impact on your life.”

ENDS