Quitline inundated with smokers wanting to quit

MEDIA RELEASE

Monday, 9 January 2006

Quitline inundated with smokers wanting to quit

The Quitline has been inundated with smokers wanting to quit smoking at the start of the New Year.

Executive Director Helen Glasgow says about 900 smokers called the Quitline last Wednesday, Thursday and Friday when the service re-opened after the Christmas break.

“The Quitline was swamped but we took names and numbers and have contacted all callers to offer help. We are delighted that smokers are deciding to make a fresh start in 2006 by calling the Quitline.”

Ms Glasgow says New Year is a popular time to quit smoking because the holiday season is a less stressful time of year for most people.

She says people who ring the Quitline on 0800 778 778 can get free Quit Packs, advice and support, as well as patches or gum at very low cost. Smokers planning a quit attempt can get an eight week course of patches or gum for about $15.00, she says. The first four week course costs only $5.00.

“The Quitline encourages people to use patches or gum because there is evidence that it doubles your chance of making a successful quit attempt.”

For help with quitting, call the Quitline on 0800 778 778 or visit the website on www.quit.org.nz.

ENDS

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