Do you want to quit smoking? Support to quit smoking is available at Galway University Hospitals

Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of death and disease in the world. 1 in every 2 smokers will die from a tobacco related disease, and most smokers lose between 10 to 15 quality life years. This major cause of death, illness, chronic disability and inequality is preventable, yet accounts for 5,500 deaths in Ireland each year. 

Any time is a good time to quit. If you are one of the many who made the decision quit smoking and are perhaps struggling after two weeks, there are ways to improve your chances of success and being ready to make the change is key.

“Colette Walsh, Smoking Cessation Advisor, Galway University Hospitals explains, “While many people have given up cigarettes ‘cold turkey’, using support services can double a person's chances of being successful. There are supports available and I would encourage everyone trying to quit to make contact with at least one of the support services – the advice is free and we know that getting support increases your chance of quitting.

“For one-on-one support services you can call the National Smokers Quitline on 1850 201 203 or you can call the local smoking cessation service at Galway University Hospitals.

“Galway University Hospitals provide a free and confidential Stop Smoking Service to all patients and members of the public.  The programme is delivered by specialists who are experts in treating people with an addiction to tobacco. The programme provides advice and information on treatment options such as Nicotine replacement Therapy and the availability of behavioural support to help maintain a smoke free life. Everyone’s journey to becoming smoke- free is different, so an initial individual assessment is carried out in consultation with each client and the level of support and treatment is then agreed upon.   With the use of the Stop Smoking Service a person is 4 times more likely to quit smoking. The service can be accessed directly by ringing (091) 542103 or through your local health care providers.

“Whatever your reasons or motivation to quit smoking, it is a positive step and we want to support and encourage you with your goal and increase your chances of success”.

Other supports available:

Freephone 1800 201 203

Freetext QUIT to 50100

Get started on  www.QUIT.ie

Find local HSE QUIT support groups on QUIT.ie or by calling the QUIT team.

Tweet the QUIT team @hseQUITteam

Join our Facebook page  www.facebook.com/HSEquit

Share your QUIT Story on the QUIT Heroes App

Talk to your GP or Pharmacist who may advise on using nicotine replacement therapy or other medications to help you make that quit attempt successful

Further information is available at http://www.hse.ie/eng/health/az/Q/Quitting-smoking/Support.html

Photo: Colette Walsh, Smoking Cessation Advisor, Galway University Hospitals during a one-on-one support session.