Smokers are unaware that quitting smoking will reduce risk of dementia

Smokers in Cheshire West and Chester are being urged to give quitting a go, ahead of No Smoking Day on 8th March, as research also shows those who smoke are more likely to develop dementia.

The annual awareness day encourages smokers to make a quit attempt and this year’s theme is 'stopping smoking protects your brain health'.

According to Alzheimer's Research UK, dementia is the most feared health condition for people over the age of 55 – more than any other life-threatening disease including cancer and diabetes.[1]

Yet YouGov data commissioned by Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) revealed only 19% of people who smoke in the North West knew that smoking increases the risk of dementia, compared to an average 75% who know that smoking causes lung diseases or cancers. [2]

Smoking raises the risk of developing dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, as it harms the vascular system (heart and blood vessels) and the brain. Studies also suggest that quitting smoking reduces this risk substantially, and smoking has been identified as one of 12 risk factors that, if eliminated entirely, could collectively prevent or delay up to 40% of dementia cases.

However, data from Alzheimer's Research UK show only a third of UK adults know there are things they can do to help reduce their risk of dementia, and stopping smoking is one of them.

Ruth Armstrong, Smoking Cessation Lead for Brio Wellbeing said: “We’re thrilled the National No Smoking Day campaign is highlighting the interaction with smoking and increased health risks including Dementia.

“Most people know smoking is bad for them, but don’t understand why and how much smoking is linked to poor physical and emotional health.

“This year’s campaign allows us to open up new conversations with people about reducing long term health risks by stepping away from their addiction.

“As a result of this year’s campaign, all our practitioners have also completed their dementia friends certificate so we can now offer general support, guidance and signposting for any clients who feel they want to explore this topic in our clinics further.

“Giving up smoking isn’t easy and getting support in the early days of quitting is essential.  Our Brio advisors are experts in supporting people’s personal transition into a smoke-free lifestyle. We can also provide you with up to 12 weeks of free nicotine replacement therapy and unlimited behavioural support for as long as you may need.”

Prof Ian Ashworth, Director of Public Health at Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “Our partners at Brio Wellbeing have a tried and tested programme which has helped hundreds of people in the borough to stop smoking.

“They know it’s not easy to quit so take a really supportive and understanding approach that’s tailored to you and what you need.

“Stopping smoking is one of the biggest things you can do to improve your health and can change your life.”

Any Cheshire West and Chester resident who is thinking of quitting can contact the Cheshire Change Hub at Brio Wellbeing to discuss the range of support on offer.

Visit: 

www.cheshirechangehub.org 

...for more information or call:

0300 777 0033

Pictured - Alison Cheshire, Mags Lacey, Lisa Blundell, Lea Oultram, Hayley Robinson and Ruth Armstrong, from Brio Wellbeing.