Wrexham Assembly Member Lesley Griffiths is backing a campaign which encourages people to give up smoking.
Stoptober offers a detailed step-by-step programme to help smokers across Wales and England stop smoking on 1st October for 28 days and Wrexham residents are being urged to take part in the challenge.
Research suggests if a smoker can quit for 28 days they are five times more likely to stay smoke free. Stoptober can provide the catalyst, support and motivation for smokers through the initial period.
Smoking is the greatest preventable cause of illness, disability and premature death in Wales and accounts for over 5,600 fatalities every year.
Around 570,000 people in Wales smoke, which represents 23 per cent of the adult population.
Commenting on the campaign, Lesley Griffiths AM said:
“Everyone is aware of the financial, physical and health benefits associated with giving up smoking.”
“Research shows almost 70% of smokers want to quit so the Stoptober campaign can provide the catalyst to encourage as many people as possible to kick the habit permanently.”
“Anybody who is interested in joining should register at www.smokefree.nhs.uk/stoptober to receive all the information and support they need. Good luck to everyone taking part.”
