Media Release

Quitline calls jump by over 25% in the month following smoking bans

Wednesday 1 August 2007

The introduction of smokefree bars and clubs has prompted a hike in calls to the Quitline in Victoria, with over 2300 people calling for advice on how to quit smoking in the month following the July 1 smoking ban.

This represented a 27% increase in calls when compared against the month prior to the bans.

July saw the Quitline at its busiest since January this year, when there is a traditional rush to quit smoking as a New Year's resolution.

Acting Director of Quit Victoria, Ms Suzie Stillman, said the results were particularly hopeful considering calls to the Quitline only symbolised the tip of the iceberg when it came to quitting attempts.

"The majority of people try to quit smoking without any help so we expect the calls to the Quitline to only represent a small portion of smokers who have tried to quit the habit in the wake of smoking bans."

"There is no doubt the new smoking bans have had a significant impact on Victorian smokers' decisions to quit in the last month, and it is certainly an important aspect in terms of staying off cigarettes."

Ms Stillman said most people who have successfully quit smoking for good have made several serious attempts, so encouraged people who may have relapsed to not be disheartened.

"It's important not to feel you have failed if you are a smoker who has found yourself back in the habit. Although you may be feeling disappointed, every day that you spent smokefree made your body healthier and helped to break your habit and weaken your addiction."

Ms. Stillman said getting support from a quitting coach, such as the Quitline and using a proven quitting product would provide smokers with the best chance of a successful quit attempt.

ends

Edwina Pearse,
Media Manager
ph: (03) 9635 5400
mob: 0417 303 811
email: Edwina.Pearse@cancervic.org.au