Half of smokers have considered giving up completely due to the global coronavirus pandemic, a study has suggested.
Research from independent pharmacy chain Well Pharmacy found 49% of smokers had pondered quitting as a result of the outbreak - although a further 60% admitted carrying on with their habit despite knowing smokers have a greater risk of more severe Covid symptoms.
The pharmacy group said 18% of smokers surveyed had cut down as they had heard of the greater risks, while 23% were unaware of the increased danger.
But 22% admitted they were now smoking up to 20% more than before the pandemic began last year.
Meanwhile, 41% said their smoking had remained the same.
Well Pharmacy urged smokers considering quitting to take advantage of the free NHS Stop Smoking Service.
Pharmacist Katie Wright said: "If you want to feel fitter and healthier, the best thing you can do is stop smoking. It’ll only take a few days before you start to notice the effects – you’ll breathe easier and find physical activity less strenuous after just three days.
"We offer expert advice on Nicotine Replacement Therapies (NRTs) such as patches, lozenges, sprays and gums, to help find the right medicine for each individual. Research shows that people are four times more like to win the battle against smoking with a combination of support services and stop-smoking medicine."
To find out whether your local Well Pharmacy offers the free NHS Stop Smoking service visit: https://finder.well.co.uk/
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