Vape Quit Kits Offered to Pregnant Smokers in Warwickshire
Warwickshire health authorities have introduced a new initiative to help pregnant smokers quit by offering them vape ‘quit kits’ as part of the Government’s Swap to Stop programme. The programme, which is now available to pregnant women and expectant parents who live in Warwickshire or are registered with a Warwickshire GP, provides access to support for quitting smoking, including vape quit kits, 12 weeks of behavioural support, and stop smoking treatments.
While vapes do not contain tobacco, making them substantially less harmful than smoking, evidence suggests they can be an effective tool in supporting smoking cessation. In England, vaping is estimated to contribute to an additional 50,000 to 70,000 successful smoking quits per year.
The Risks of Smoking During Pregnancy
When a new baby is on the way, quitting smoking is one of the most important steps expectant parents can take. Women who smoke during pregnancy face a significantly higher risk of developing various complications during pregnancy, birth, and beyond, including:
- 82% higher risk of low-birth weight compared to non-smokers
- Up to 50% increased risk of still-birth
- Higher chance of miscarriage, slow growth, and premature birth
- Increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome, wheezing, and colic in infancy
- Higher likelihood of asthma, behavioural problems (including ADHD), and some cancers in childhood
- Increased probability of children becoming smokers themselves
Support from Warwickshire Stop Smoking in Pregnancy Service
Linda Ward from South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust emphasizes the importance of quitting smoking during pregnancy and the support available through the Warwickshire Stop Smoking in Pregnancy service. “If you’re expecting a baby and looking to quit smoking, you’re three times more likely to quit with the support from the Warwickshire Stop Smoking in Pregnancy service,” she says.
By stopping smoking, expectant mothers can reduce the risks associated with smoking during pregnancy to that of a non-smoker. Quitting also provides long-term health benefits, reducing the chances of developing heart disease, stroke, and various cancers, as well as lowering the risk of post-partum blood clots.
“We welcome the use of vapes as one of the options to aid pregnant smokers in Warwickshire to go smoke free for good,” Ward adds.
For more information on the Warwickshire Stop Smoking in Pregnancy service and the vape quit kits, visit https://quit4good.warwickshire.gov.uk/.
News source: Vapes offered to help Warwickshire’s pregnant smokers quit
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