(Image: Supplied)
SMOKERS in Bradford are being urged to quit for good as part of the Stoptober national campaign.
Health officials are encouraging residents to take part in the annual October drive, which challenges smokers to stop for 28 days with the aim of quitting permanently.
Stoptober highlights that individuals who stop smoking for 28 days are five times more likely to quit for good.
Craig Blundred, director of public health for Bradford District, said: "We know that stopping smoking can be challenging, but people are much more likely to succeed when they have the right support.
"That's why we're encouraging smokers across Bradford district to make Stoptober their time to quit.
"Our Living Well Stop Smoking Service is completely free to access, with the only potential cost being prescription charges for those who normally pay them.
"From one-to-one support and vaping kits to stop smoking medications, we're here to help people become smoke-free for good."
Smoking remains the leading cause of preventable illness and death, contributing to cancer, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory illnesses.
Quitting not only improves personal health but also protects loved ones from second-hand smoke and frees up more money for individuals and families.
Health experts stress that it is never too late to quit, even after multiple failed attempts.
Dr Emma Hardy, GP and public health specialty registrar in Yorkshire and Humber, said: "I want people to know that they don’t have to tackle quitting alone.
"There are different ways to get support, from digital tools to free support from a stop smoking advisor – it’s about finding what works for you and fits into your life.
"If you’ve tried before, you’re not starting from scratch: you’ve learnt something about what works and what’s difficult, and every attempt counts.
"Stoptober is a chance to build on that and take another step, with support to make it easier this time."
To support smokers across the district, the Living Well Stop Smoking Service is offering free, personalised support throughout Stoptober.
The service includes 12-week vaping kits, nicotine replacement therapy, clinically approved medications, one-to-one advisor support, and access to a stop smoking app.
All services are free, with only standard NHS prescription charges applying for those who normally pay.
Anyone ready to take the first step towards quitting can contact the Living Well Stop Smoking Service.
Call 01274 437700 or visit this LINK.