Southern NSW Local Health District health promotion coordinator Emma Woolley said the best thing smokers could do for their health was to quit smoking, but pressure from a friend or family member could make it more difficult for someone to quit.

“If you are supporting someone to quit it is important that it is that person’s choice, not yours,” she said. “However, supporting someone in a positive and non-judgemental way can be extremely helpful.

“Becoming a non-smoker takes time. Many people make a number of attempts to quit before they quit for good. If someone you are supporting does slip up or return to smoking, you can help them by continuing to provide encouragement and highlight the positive learning that is gained from every quit attempt.”

Southern NSW Local Health District has the third highest rate of smoking in NSW, with 18.5 per cent of the population continuing to smoke, compared to 15.0 per cent in NSW.

Smoking causes around 200 deaths and 1400 hospitalisations in the Southern NSW Local Health District per year. These hospitalisations are mainly due to lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and ischaemic heart disease.

“Don’t ever give up on giving up. Every time you try to quit you learn more about getting it right and your body will love you for trying,” Mrs Woolley said.

World No Tobacco Day is observed every year on 31 May and aims to draw global attention to the widespread prevalence of tobacco use and to its negative health effects.

For advice and support with quitting smoking call the Quitline on 13 7848, visit icanquit.com.au or speak with your health professional.