New official statistics show the positive news that smoking prevalence in Cumbria is continuing to fall and the number of adults smoking in the county has hit an all-time low.
In 2012 more than 80,000 people smoked and today that figure stands at a little over 55,000, that’s 25,000 fewer people smoking.
Latest figures from Public Health England show that smoking prevalence amongst adults in the county now stands at 13.6%. This means rates are down by almost a third from 20% six years ago.
Colin Cox, Cumbria County Council’s Director of Public Health, said: “Since 2012, smoking prevalence amongst adults in Cumbria has reduced significantly. We’re heading in the right direction to a healthier and smoke free Cumbria.
“Quitting is the best thing you can do for your health and the health of those around you. Each year smoking contributes towards around 2,800 deaths in Cumbria in people over 35.
“There’s more free support than ever before and our local Stop Smoking Services can help people who want to quit.”
People who get expert support from Stop Smoking Services are up to four times more likely to quit successfully as those who try to quit unaided, what’s more support can be accessed for free from local pharmacies.
Members of the public can find local Stop Smoking Support by texting ‘pharmacy stop your postcode’ to 80011 or by visiting www.nhs.uk/smokefree where they can also download a free personal quit plan.
