Smoking too dear in a recession

A recession is a good time for bad habits to go up in smoke, a Timaru nurse believes.

When times are tough economically it makes sense to quit smoking, Timaru Hospital smokefree clinical nurse specialist Olly Wilson says in the lead-up to World Smokefree Day on May 31.

"A pack-a-day smoker could save more than $4000 a year by quitting or $8000 if a couple smokes.

"Imagine having that much extra money. It could take a lot of stress out of car repairs, school fees, rent payments, groceries and the winter power bill."

World Smokefree Day's focus this year encourages people to give quitting smoking a go. Mr Wilson says this fits well with the economic climate.

"We are all looking for ways to save money. Quitting smoking is a great way to keep more money in your family's pocket and invest in your family's health.

"You wouldn't pay someone to wreck your car, why pay someone to wreck your body?" He acknowledged that quitting can be hard and suggests that people find out about the help available, enlist the support of their loved ones and set a quit date.

Help is available for those wanting to quit. He recommended calling the free Quitline on 0800 778 778, and using nicotine replacement therapy such as patches or gum, which can double a person's chances of stopping.

He suggested people write down all the reasons they want to stop and tape the list to the fridge to help them stay motivated.

- © Fairfax NZ News