Smoking Cessation

There’s a lot of support available for people who want to stop smoking. Book an appointment with your doctor to find out more about accessing these services.

Why quit smoking?

If you quit smoking, you’ll probably live longer and enjoy much better health. It’s never too late, because the body begins to repair itself as soon as the organ-damaging and cancer-causing chemicals present in tobacco smoke are removed. New Zealand medical guidelines indicate the risk of heart attack or stroke is greatly reduced within one year of stopping. Smoking is expensive, after a few months, you’ll be amazed at how much you previously spent on smoking.

How is smoking bad for you?

Smoking is a major risk factor for heart attacks and stroke, is the leading cause of lung cancer, and is related to many other health issues. Smoking is estimated to kill 5000 New Zealanders each year. Smoking kills one in every two regular smokers. If it doesn’t kill you, it will damage your health. 

Smoking affects your friends, whānau and children

Second-hand smoke affects your friends and whanau, with an estimated 350 New Zealanders dying each year from exposure to second-hand smoke. Children who are exposed to second-hand smoke are more likely to develop illnesses such as chest infection, glue ear and asthma. Smoking also increases the risk of sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI).

Stopping smoking is the best thing you can do for your health

We’d love to help you quit and there are many different tools out there available to help you, with many of them coming at no extra cost. There is Quitline and your local Southern Stop Smoking Service and Smoke Free. For more information and help on smoking cessation, contact your doctor today.