This October, during Quit Month 2024, the HSE is encouraging smokers to seek support to quit. NRT is offered for free as part of a comprehensive package of evidence-based support through the HSE Quit service.

NRT consists of licensed medications that provide small, safe amounts of nicotine, helping manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

The HSE emphasizes that the most effective way to quit smoking is by combining NRT with one-on-one support. They provide free NRT options, including inhalers, sprays, mists, lozenges, and patches.

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly stated: “Tobacco products continue to cause a wide range of devastating illnesses in Ireland, claiming the lives of one in two smokers.

“Our goal is to reduce the smoking rate to below five percent of the adult population and to eliminate smoking among children. Over this government’s term, we have made significant progress in reducing smoking rates.

“I am pleased to announce that we are continuing to fund NRT programs nationwide, giving people access to medically proven, free tools to help them quit for good.”

Dr. Paul Kavanagh, HSE Public Health Medicine Lead for the Tobacco Free Ireland Programme, added: “The HSE QUIT service provides safe, clinically proven care that works. In line with the National Stop Smoking Guidelines and with the Department of Health’s support, we are proud to offer free NRT to those using our services.

“We know that using NRT during a quit attempt significantly improves the chances of success. Since free NRT became widely available in 2023, we’ve seen a 50 percent increase in its use among people using our service. This has been a game-changer, with six out of ten people now taking advantage of the free NRT offer.”

Martina Blake, National Lead of the HSE Tobacco Free Ireland Programme, said: “Although smoking rates in Ireland had been declining, the recent Healthy Ireland Survey revealed that this progress has stalled.

“This is concerning, and we have responded by enhancing the HSE QUIT service by making NRT free of charge.

“Too many smokers attempt to quit on their own, without accessing the support that can significantly boost their chances of success. This Quit Month, the HSE QUIT service is here to help.

“Work with our trained quit advisors to develop a personalized stop-smoking plan that fits your lifestyle.”