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

Smoking is the main preventable cause of death and disability and any time is a good time to quit, however the New Year always provides a fresh incentive to try. 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.
 
Irene O’Byrne, Smoking Cessation Officer, 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 and I will be available to talk to you between 9.30am and 5pm. My number is (091) 542103 and if I am with a client, please leave a message and I will call you back.
 
“There are also web based support sites – www.quit.ie - and also a new HSE ‘You Can Quit’ page on Facebook which is made up of a community of past, present and future quitters; the page also includes an app called ‘I Quit’, which allows you to announce their plans to give up smoking.
 
“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”.