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HEALTH chiefs are offering support to those who are using the coronavirus outbreak as inspiration to quit smoking.
Latest figures show that, since lockdown began on March 23, more than 800 people have decided to kick the habit with the help of the Quit Your Way service operated by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC), which covers Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire.
The service offers free advice and support, including nicotine replacement therapy or Champix tablets which reduce nicotine withdrawal symptoms.
According to the ASH Scotland charity, which aims to reduce the harm caused by tobacco, smokers may be more at risk of Covid-19 as tobacco damages the lungs and airways, causing severe respiratory problems.
Dr Linda de Caestecker, NHSGGC director of public health, said: “Most people who smoke will have tried to stop before but there has never been a more important time to quit.
“It’s encouraging to see so many people decide to break their smoking habit during lockdown.”
Anyone who would like to stop smoking can call the Quit Your Way service on 0800 916 8858.
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