Write a list of your reasons for becoming smokefree and keep the list with you as a constant reminder of the reasons to stop and the benefits you will enjoy.When you decide you want to stop smoking, these are some things you can do to help stay on track: Please consult with your doctor and medical team if you need to quit suddenly. You may need to stop smoking suddenly. This could be due to pregnancy, a serious health condition such as heart disease, or a requirement to stop smoking before or after surgery. There is also telephone, text-to-quit and online quit support programmes like Quitline. You can use various stop smoking medicines, attend one-on-one or face-to-face group support programmes. These include talking with your friends, family, your GP or nurse. There is lots of support available to help you. If you have tried to stop before, your chances are greater this time because you will have gained an understanding of what triggers your smoking, and may have ways to deal with these triggers. The chances of stopping smoking on your own are small – most people will be much more successful in quitting if they use the support available to them. 15 years, your risk of a heart attack drops to that of someone who has NEVER smoked.

1 year, your risk of heart attack falls to half that of someone who smokes.12 weeks, it is easier for your heart to pump.8 hours, your risk of heart attack starts to fall.20 minutes, your blood pressure starts to lower.The best thing you can do for your heart health and the health of your family/whānau is to quit smoking. Smoking (Kaipaipa) causes damage throughout the body and is the biggest risk for heart disease, heart attack or stroke. Stopping smoking has benefits to almost every aspect of your health, including your heart, lungs, oral health, bones and skin.

Stop smoking health calculator