Become a Quit Catalyst on World No Tobacco Day

Today is World NoTobacco Day. This annual campaign, run by the World Health Organisation, is an opportunity to raise awareness of the harmful and deadly effects of tobacco use and second hand smoke exposure.

This year’s event focuses on the impact that tobacco has on people’s lung health, from cancer to chronic respiratory disease and highlights the fundamental role lungs play for the health and well-being of all people.

It calls on all healthcare professionals to help their patients fight tobacco dependency.

PCRS Executive Chair Dr Noel Baxter, says: “Providing the simple and evidence based intervention of VBA (Very Brief Advice) is something every health professional can do and we know people dependent on tobacco expect that this is something that may be asked about and they are OK with it.

“Make sure you know how to do this in a way that might make a difference and may trigger a quit attempt. It isn’t just a chat and maybe not what you think it is. Get trained, it takes 20 minutes, make a difference, it takes 30 seconds. “

Have you seen the new PCRS guide to managing tobacco dependency which you can use to help your patients to quit?

It explains:

• How to instigate a quit attempt
• How to support a quit attempt
• How to respond to difficult clinical conversations and questions

You can also become a Quit Catalyst.  Noel Baxter explains how in this article.

If you want to find out more you can attend a smoking cessation techniques hands-on session at the PCRS Respiratory Conference 2019 in Telford on 19-21 September.  Book now to take advantage of our discounted rates.