Commit to Quitting this Stoptober

The proportion of adult smokers in Sunderland has fallen to a record low, but there is still progress to be made this Stoptober.

Stoptober is the Department of Health and Social Care’s annual “stop smoking” campaign, driven by evidence that if smokers make it to 28 days smoke free, they are five times more likely to quit for good.

In 2023, the proportion of adult smokers in Sunderland fell to 12.3%, a record low for the city, but this is still slightly higher than the national average of 11.6%.

Historically Sunderland has had high rates of smoking, which continues to be one of the leading causes for premature death in the city.

The Foundation of Light aims to tackle this through our partnership with Sunderland Specialist Stop Smoking Service, who are encouraging smokers to ‘swap to stop’ this October.

Smokers aged 18 and above can swap their cigarettes for a free vape and get one-to-one support from an experienced stop smoking advisor to help them quit.

Alison is a Lead Advisor at Sunderland’s stop smoking service and said “Many people try to quit smoking with will power alone, but it is much easier with the right help. Research shows you are more likely to quit with the right nicotine replacement products and support.

“We know that swapping to a vape has helped many smokers quit. This scheme is a great chance for many more people to quit for good.

“Most people try a few times before they quit for good and every time you try, you learn something new about yourself which can help the next time.”

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU QUIT

After 20 minutes
Your pulse rate starts to return to normal.

After 48 hours
All carbon monoxide is flushed out. Your lungs start clearing out mucus, your oxygen levels have risen, and your senses of taste smell improve.

After 3 to 9 months
Lung function increases up to 10%, supporting your recovery, your circulation has improved aiding blood flow to heart and muscles.

After 1 year
Your risk of heart attack is halved compared with a smoker’s.

After 10 years
Your risk of death from lung cancer is halved compared with a smoker’s.