New nationwide research has shown that 95% of ex-smokers saw positive changes as soon as two weeks after quitting.
The study involved more than 3,000 participants and was conducted by Censuswide ahead of the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities ‘Stoptober’ campaign.
The most significant changes noted were increased energy (45%), feeling healthier (42%) and improved breathing (42%). Other improvements included a restored sense of taste (25%), healthier-looking skin (24%) and increased ability to exercise (22%).
The findings reinforced understanding of the short-term benefits of quitting. For example, the NHS reports improvements to smell and taste within as little as 48 hours.
Over a third (34%) of ex-smokers also noticed that they were saving money. On average, quitting smoking saves £38 per week, or £2,000 per year.
In addition to these positive effects, the study investigated the support systems of ex-smokers. It found that 29% found support with family and friends while quitting, while 21% were helped by talking to others who had quit.
Several successful strategies for quitting were also revealed. Distractions such as keeping the hands busy, changing routines and going for walks were each effective for 37% of participants.
‘Healthier, wealthier and pressure on the NHS eases’
Health Minister Neil O’Brien said: ‘Smoking is the single biggest cause of preventable illness and death. When people quit smoking, the benefits are huge – they are healthier, wealthier and pressure on the NHS eases.
‘Stoptober will motivate thousands to quit smoking this October by providing people with the support and confidence to go smoke free.
‘We remain committed to our bold ambition to be smoke free by 2030, bolstered by a package of new measures giving vapes to a million smokers, new financial incentives for pregnant women to quit and new pack inserts to provide support to people to quit.’
The government is reportedly working towards a ban on single use vapes. However, it is thought that disposable vapes may still be available on the NHS through its ‘swap to stop’ scheme.
Vapes as a method of quitting smoking have proved contentious. Research has suggested that switching smokers to vaping could save the NHS ‘more than half a billion a year’. However, another study showed that adolescents who vape were more likely to start smoking.
According to Bupa Dental Care, vaping is safer than smoking but can lead to oral health problems such as tooth discolouration, plaque build-up and risk of gum disease, cavities and tooth loss.
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