Smokers reveal quitting smoking will give them the same sense of achievement as buying their first home

Giving up smoking is as big an achievement as buying a home or getting married, according to new research released by Boots UK, to coincide with the launch of Stoptober.

Boots pharmacists are calling upon smokers across the country to look forward to and celebrate their forthcoming achievement, as the Government begins its campaign to encourage the nation’s eight million smokers to take part in Stoptober, the 28-day national stop smoking challenge.

The research reveals that 61% of smokers say quitting smoking is one of their lifetime ambitions, with one in three saying it is comparable to buying their first house and the same figure for getting married. Others compared the achievement of quitting smoking with learning to drive (49%) and even climbing a mountain (46%), emphasising that giving up smoking is an accomplishment to be celebrated just like the many other milestones we mark in our lives.

Boots pharmacist, Angela Chalmers says: “Going smoke free is a huge achievement and anyone who has taken on this challenge knows how great it feels to reach their goals. As the research shows, quitting smoking is something many people have on their ‘to do’ list and it is often the start to something new and exciting. There are lots of different ways to quit and at Boots UK we want to help people find the way that works best for them and support them at every stage of their smoke free journey.”

The research suggests that giving up smoking is a bigger challenge than losing weight with 60% of smokers indicating this to be the case. One in four smokers who achieve their goal of going smoke free, highlight they will celebrate their achievement by treating themselves with the money they have saved.

With many years of experience in providing support to people who are giving up smoking, Boots pharmacists know that having access to the right help can make all the difference.  From expert pharmacist advice and support, smoking control products, and the unique Smoke Less Plan and the NHS stop smoking services available in selected Boots stores; Boots UK can help smokers find the method of quitting that works for them, to help ensure that every smoke free attempt is a successful one.

To find out more about how Boots UK can help you to go smoke free during Stoptober, visit a participating Boots pharmacy today for a private and confidential chat with a member of the pharmacy team. Expert advice is available without an appointment necessary, to check the pharmacy opening times, visit the store locator at boots.com/storelocator.

For more information on quitting, visit the BootsWebMD.com smoking cessation health centre.