There is great news for those planning to give up smoking in the new year, with a new service offering free help and support for Cantabrians to quit.
The news comes as an increase in tobacco is announced
Canerbury District Health Board Smokefree Manager, Vivien Daley says it is the perfect time of the year to shake the habit.
"With smokers looking at hefty price increases on cigarettes, more and more cafes and local places becoming smokefree and smoking generally becoming less accepted anywhere, the new year really is the perfect time to make a fresh start and begin the journey to becoming smokefree."
"I'm really excited to announce that there's now even more help to kick the habit"
Te Hā - Waitaha is a new free stop smoking service which is available to Canterbury people who smoke. If you are Māori, pacific, pregnant, or living with a pregnant woman, Ms Daley says there are specific programmes suitable for you.
"Quit coaches are based all across Canterbury and the support provided will be really up to the individual, whether it's face to face, via phone or text, in a group or on your own."
We provide information and work with clients to find ways that can help make quitting a little easier, including free nicotine replacement products like patches, gum and lozenges and advice on other supports.
Quit coaches are currently located in He Waka Tapu (Wainoni), Te Puawaitanga (Hornby), Purapura Whetu (Central city) and mobile workers will work in a range of locations, both urban and rural.
Phone 0800 425 700 if you or someone you know would like help to quit in the new year.
A pack of 20 cigarettes will increase from about $20 now to around $30 in 2020 after hefty new excise increases were announced as part of the NZ 2016 budget. The tax on tobacco will rise by 10% on January 1st each year for the next four years.
Provided by Te Hā - Waitaha - Stop Smkoing Canterbury
Did you know that 4,700 New Zealanders die every year from smoking-related health problems? You have probably heard it all before, but smoking can cause many risks to your health.
For people with symptoms who have not been diagnosed:If you're short of breath, it's not too late to ask your doctor about spirometry (a test of your lung strength).
For patients with COPD:If you have COPD, it's not too late to live an active life.
For doctors:If you care for people with COPD, it's not too late to help your patients breathe better.
Skin cancer is a year-round issue
More than 300 New Zealanders die from skin cancer every year.
“To reach a healthy weight”“To give up smoking”“To have a cervical smear and/or breast check”“To book myself in for a men’s wellness check”“To get my moles checked”“To get my blood pressure /asthma/ cholesterol /diabetes under control”
Whatever your health resolution is, take the next step by making an appointment to see your GP at Kaiapoi Family DoctorsCall us on 3277474 to arrange a time that suits you.
Have a healthy start to 2017
