More than 90,000 smokers quit during pandemic, says charity

Around 93,000 people in Scotland have quit smoking during the coronavirus pandemic, a charity’s analysis has suggested.

Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) calculated the figure, using population estimates, after completing a survey of 10,251 people across Scotland, England and Wales.

A regional breakdown found the number who had kicked the habit north of the border was almost three times that of Wales (33,000) but was less than half of the figure for London (204,000).

The statistics have been released as part of a campaign to encourage more smokers to quit and has been backed by Dr Ruth Sharrock, a respiratory consultant.

Dr Sharrock said: “Every day of my working life I see the terrible health problems caused by smoking.

“But I have also been inspired by those already suffering from smoking related diseases, who have still managed quit and get health benefits from this.

“My message to smokers today is, please, do not wait. Whether you are healthy now or already unwell because of smoking, today is the day to stop. It can transform your life.”

Sheila Duffy, chief executive at ASH Scotland said: “It is always good to see data that show people are quitting smoking.

“In Scotland, smoking accounts for 9000 deaths a year and 100,000 hospital visits so we need to continue to support people in their quit attempts and maintain funding for cessation services.

“This is essential for Scotland to achieve its goal of being smoke-free by 2034.

“The Quit Your Way service is still available during lockdown on 0800 84 84 84.”