Health

Smoking

The legal age to be able to smoke is 16. Sometimes it can be tempting to start smoking if you're in a group, especially if you're the only one who doesn't smoke. But read the facts first and make up your own mind.

Facts About Smoking

  • Smoking is linked to lung cancer, heart disease, bronchitis and other illnesses and every year around 120,000 people die of smoking related diseases.
  • Smoking whilst pregnant can be dangerous for the unborn baby.
  • The nicotine in tobacco is addictive making it hard to stop once you have started.
  • It will cost you! If you smoke ten cigarettes a day you will spend around £800 a year; you could buy 60 CDs or go on holiday for the same amount.
  • Smoking can cause impotence.
  • Smoking makes your hair, breath and clothes smell and can make your teeth and skin yellow.

If you smoke, giving up smoking is probably the greatest single step you can take to improve your health and your life. Giving up smoking increases your chances of living a longer and healthier life. It might be tough but millions of people have managed it.

For advice and support on giving up smoking, call the smoking helpline, ask at your pharmacy, doctor's surgery or contact the local NHS Stop Smoking Support Service.

NHS Stop Smoking Support Service

  • Kettering, Corby and Wellingborough - 0845 6013116
  • Northampton - 01604 615272
  • Daventry and South Northamptonshire - 01327 708111
  • Smoking Helpline - 0800 169 0 169