Local health unit issues statement on National Non-Smoking Week

The following statement is from Hastings Prince Edward Public Health.

“This National Non-Smoking Week, HPEPH encourages tobacco users not to give up – quitting takes practice!

January 21 to 27 is National Non-Smoking Week, and Hastings and Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is reminding tobacco users that quitting is a skill you improve with practice, so don’t give up! Breaking the habit might take between seven to 30 tries, so if it doesn’t work the first time, keep trying!

Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health and right now is a great time to give it a shot. You will start feeling the benefits of quitting within just 20 minutes after your last cigarette, and in just one day blood pressure begins to drop and blood oxygen levels rise. In addition, quitting smoking can protect you from potential long-term health issues.

HPEPH recognizes that thinking about quitting can seem overwhelming. However, you don’t need to do it alone! There is help available in Ontario for people who want to quit. You can talk to trained quit specialists by calling HPEPH’s Tobacco Talk Line at 613-966-5500, ext. 600. Online resources are available at www.smokershelpline.ca, where you can also chat with a trained quit coach. Smokers can also check out the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) program STOP on the Net, which offers four weeks of nicotine replacement therapy for those who are eligible.

For more information, visit hpePublicHealth.ca/quit-smoking-program/.

In addition, to address youth smoking and recreational nicotine use, HPEPH is running the #HPEQuits challenge. Teens who are interested in quitting smoking or vaping, or who would like to commit to remaining vape/smoke-free, can register until January 31 at hpePublicHealth.ca/hpe-quits-contest/.”