Strictly Come Dancing star James Jordan has joined celebrities such as Martin Kemp and Sinitta in encouraging people to give up smoking by highlighting the positive impact quitting can have.
Jordan, 44, recently revealed on Instagram that he had given up smoking after 27 years and threw his support behind Stoptober, which launches today.
In the post the former Strictly professional described quitting smoking as the “best decision I’ve ever made” and encouraged people thinking about quitting to take part in the campaign this October.
In a video accompanying his post, he said: “I smoked for 27 years. My quitting journey has shown me that I am more capable than I thought, thanks to the support of my own family and friends and the professional help I sought.
“I am now passing all that motivation onto you. Quitting smoking can improve your health, quality of life and save you money. I am so glad I took this step, and I promise you, you will be too.”
Smoking remains the single biggest cause of preventable illness and death in England but people are five times more likely to quit for good if they can make it to at least 28 days smoke free.
Jordan is backing the campaign alongside Spandau Ballet star and actor Kemp and 80s pop star Sinitta.
Kemp said: “I have seen the impact smoking can have on a family – my own parents and grandma used to smoke all the time when I was young, and I constantly saw the damage it was doing to their health.
“I want to persuade you that if you are a smoker struggling to quit, that you can do it, I am behind you and believe you can do it. This October is a great time to try.”
Sinitta added: “I am supporting Stoptober again this year because it’s such a great way to quit. Anyone looking to quit should use this month as their starting point. Giving up smoking is one of the best things I have ever done for my health, and I just want to encourage others that they can do the same.”
Research shows that self-confidence is a major factor in successful attempts at quitting smoking. Stoptober is encouraging people to take simple steps to help build their confidence and get the support they need from family and friends, as well as professional help, to quit for the whole of October.
For free support to quit this October, search ‘Stoptober’ - Quit smoking - Better Heath - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
