The number of people using the smoking cessation services throughout Northern Ireland has risen by 59%.
Over 5,000 more smokers than in 2005/06 have contacted the smoking cessation services in 2006/07, with 13,795 in total setting a quit date.
The Minister said: “The introduction of smoke-free legislation earlier this year has provided an extra incentive for people who were considering kicking the habit.
“The legislation was introduced with the primary aim of improving public health, and I would encourage anyone who is wavering to contact the cessation services and take the first step in quitting.”
Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride added: “Smoking is thought to be the single greatest cause of preventable illness and premature death in Northern Ireland.
“If you quit smoking, you are likely to add years to your life, breathe more easily and have more energy. You will have extra money for spending or saving and food will taste better.
“Whether young or old, you will have less chance of getting cancer, having a heart attack, or suffering from lung disease.
“Stopping smoking is not easy, but there is lots of good advice and help on how to quit.
“The cessation services throughout Northern Ireland are doing a fantastic job in encouraging and supporting people in their efforts to quit.
“The Smoker’s helpline on 0800 858585 is a freephone service which provides advice and support about stopping smoking, or ask your GP or pharmacist.”
NOTES TO EDITORS:
1. The statistical report is available on the DHSSPS website 
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2. There are now over 300 community pharmacists across Northern Ireland who provide a smoking cessation service. The service offers smokers a 12-week programme of advice and support, with free NRT available for those eligible for free prescriptions.
3. All pharmacy-based services will be registered with ‘The NI Smokers Helpline’, 0800 858585. This is the first point of contact for many smokers seeking help to quit, as it keeps a database of all specialist smoking cessation services in the region, directing smokers to the service that is most suitable for their needs.
4. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) doubles your chances of stopping! You can get it in various forms: including chewing gum, patches, inhalator, nasal spray, and tablets. These can be bought over the counter from your pharmacist and are also available on prescription. There are also a couple of non-nicotine treatments which are only available on prescription from your GP.
5. Media queries to DHSSPS Press Office on 028 9052 0074, or out of hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number on 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
