It's No Smoking Day!

Take the first step toward a healthier, smoke-free future. Find out what support is available here.

Today marks #NoSmokingDay, an annual event dedicated to encouraging smokers to take the significant step toward a healthier, smoke-free life. Quitting smoking not only leads to immediate health improvements but also offers substantial financial benefits. For residents of Merton and the broader South West London area, the advantages of quitting are particularly noteworthy.

Health Benefits of Quitting Smoking

The health benefits of quitting smoking begin almost immediately:

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

• After 8 hours: Oxygen levels recover, and harmful carbon monoxide levels in your blood reduce by half.

• After 48 hours: Carbon monoxide levels drop to that of a non-smoker, lungs start clearing out mucus, and senses of taste and smell improve.

• After 72 hours: Breathing becomes easier as bronchial tubes begin to relax, and energy levels increase.

• After 2 to 12 weeks: Circulation improves, making physical activities like walking and running easier.

• After 3 to 9 months: Coughs, wheezing, and breathing problems improve as lung function increases by up to 10%.

• After 1 year: "The risk of heart attack is halved compared to that of a smoker"

• After 10 years: "The risk of death from lung cancer is halved compared to that of a smoker"

These milestones highlight the body's remarkable ability to heal once smoking cease 

Smoking Statistics in Merton

In Merton, the smoking prevalence rate among adults aged 18 and over stands at 12.4%, which is lower than the rates for London (14.97%) and England (13.58%). Despite this relatively lower rate, it is estimated that over 26,700 people in the borough are smokers as of 2022/23. Notably, individuals in routine and manual jobs have a higher likelihood of smoking, with a prevalence rate of 22.45% compared to the overall rate. Additionally, nearly 27% of adults with a mental health illness in Merton are recorded as smokers. Smoking is estimated to cause around 143 deaths annually in the borough. (ons.gov.uk+2merton.gov.uk+2content.govdelivery.com+2)

Financial Benefits of Quitting Smoking

Beyond health improvements, quitting smoking offers significant financial advantages. On average, a smoker could save £38 a week by quitting, amounting to approximately £2,000 a year. These savings can be redirected toward other essential expenses or personal goals, enhancing overall quality of life (gov.uk)

Support Available in Merton

Recognising the challenges associated with quitting, Merton offers various support services:

• NHS Quit Smoking App: This free app provides personalized support, allowing users to track progress, see financial savings, receive daily motivation, and connect with others on the same journey. 

• One You Merton: A health and wellbeing service that offers support around eating well, moving more, managing stress, and stopping smoking.  

Quitting smoking is a transformative decision that yields immediate and long-term health and financial benefits. With the right support and resources available in Merton and across South West London, there's no better time to embark on this life-changing journey. Embrace the opportunity this #NoSmokingDay to take the first step toward a healthier, smoke-free future.