VICTORIAN smokers are being encouraged to chat to their local pharmacists for advice and support to help them on their quitting journey, thanks to a united push by Quit Victoria and the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia.
This year, Quit Victoria has trained hundreds of pharmacists across Victoria to improve their confidence and ability to provide advice to patients about quitting.
New data show around one in six people in Victoria currently smoke, so Quit Victoria Director Dr Sarah White is urging smokers to make the most of the accessible and expert information pharmacists can offer on the subject.
"When it comes to quitting, people can feel alone and unsure of what the best approach is, or where to go for support and advice," said White.
"Sadly, just one in five people use the most effective quitting approach when trying to stop smoking -- which is to combine Quitline coaching with the appropriate use of nicotine replacement products suited to you," White added.
The Victoria-wide campaign encouraging smokers to speak to their pharmacists about quitting will air on radio, digital and in medical waiting rooms until late Dec, the PSA said.
For more information on the campaign see quit.org.au.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 31 Oct 18
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