Quitting smoking has topped a list of resolutions that smokers set for themselves – in the middle of the year, research has found.
A poll of 1,500 Brits, who smoke, found that 28 per cent set mid-year resolutions – including losing weight, drinking more water, and working out more often.
But it is kicking the habit altogether that tops the list – as Google searches for “Give up smoking” were higher in the middle of June last year, than they were throughout January this year.
In fact, more than seven in ten Brits (72 per cent) feel more confident that they will meet such targets during the summer months, than they do at the start of the year.
Nearly half (45 per cent) said this is because it is easier to motivate yourself during the warmer months, and 44 per cent feel more energised to meet their goals at this time of year.
And smoke-free cigarette alternative, IQOS, has today launched “The IQOS No Smoke Index”, which monitors smokers’ intentions, actions, and drivers around quitting.
Harry Wake, from the brand, said: “It’s clear the UK is undergoing a huge, societal shift away from cigarettes.
“As everyone knows, the best choice any smoker can make is to quit tobacco and nicotine products completely.
“However, for those who don’t stop, having good access to information about less harmful alternatives such as vapes, nicotine pouches, and heat-not-burn products, can be vital in helping smokers find the product that’s right for them on their switching journey.”
The study also found 76 per cent were motivated to improve both their physical and mental health ahead of the summer holiday season.
The index findings revealed an average of 31 cigarettes were smoked by respondents each week, with three previous attempts being made to quit the habit.
Switching to vaping, nicotine patches, gums, and lozenges were the most popular methods used to try to stop.
However, the research found smokers were often drawn back to smoking during periods of stress.
But 39% think about quitting weekly or more, with 13 per cent of those pondering it daily.
Harry Wake, from IQOS, added: “Research shows that the majority of smokers who use our heat-not-burn products, completely quit cigarettes for good.
“On top of this, for someone smoking a pack of cigarettes a day, they can save up to £3,000 per year, making it less harmful to health and better for your wealth – switching is a double dividend.”
Top 10 mid-year resolutions for smokers:
- Quit smoking
- Drink more water
- Lose weight
- Be better with money
- Save energy
- Change diet
- Work out more frequently
- Join a gym
- Make more effort with friends
- Take on a new hobby
