Smoking remains one of the single biggest preventable causes of serious illness, significantly raising the risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer and lung disease. The good news is that the health benefits of quitting start almost immediately, and continue to improve for years afterwards.

You're up to three times more likely to quit successfully with proper support than by going it alone — combining stop-smoking medication or nicotine replacement with behavioural support gives the best results. Free NHS stop smoking services are available and a good first port of call, alongside advice from your GP or local pharmacist.

Common questions

What happens to your health after quitting smoking?
The health benefits of quitting start almost immediately and continue to improve for years afterwards.

Does support help you quit smoking?
Yes, you are up to three times more likely to quit successfully with proper support than by going it alone.