World's first in-flight smoking cessation card helps travellers become 'Unstoppable'
The European Commission today announced a new phase in its smoking cessation campaign, "Ex-Smokers are Unstoppable" (www.exsmokers.eu). It marked World No Tobacco Day by launching the world's first in-flight smoking cessation card. This health information card will support smokers to overcome cravings during their flight and encourage them in their onward journey to stay smoke free for life.
This new health tool, available in-flight to airline passengers across Europe, has been developed in partnership the European Lung Foundation (ELF) and the Tobacco Control Committee of the European Respiratory Society (ERS). With more than one-third (40.7%) of smokers surveyed across Europe admitting they felt anxious, or craved a cigarette while on board, the tool offers motivational health advice to passengers who are smoke free for their flight, to encourage and inspire them to be ex-smokers for life. The card also includes links to further resources and support for smokers, such as the Ex-Smokers are Unstoppable dedicated website and iCoach, an interactive online tool providing one-to-one support in quitting.
Marking World No Tobacco Day, European Commissioner for Health and Consumers John Dalli said
"The launch of the "Ex-Smokers are Unstoppable" and TAP Portugal in-flight smoking cessation card is an innovative initiative in the second year of this campaign. Using the time spent on a plane to reflect upon all you have to gain from quitting tobacco is indeed a good idea! Actions such as this help us towards our objective of raising awareness about the benefits of a life without smoking."
Speaking of the in-flight cessation card, Monica Fletcher, Chair of the European Lung Foundation, said "This is an exciting and valuable initiative that both the ELF and ERS are delighted to be a part of. We hope the practical tips and advice we have developed will enable smokers to take a firm decision to become ex-smokers by the time they reach their destinations."
The EU-wide campaign "Ex-Smokers are Unstoppable" uniquely shifts the focus from the dangers of smoking to the positive benefits of quitting, highlighting the inspirational achievements of ex-smokers. The campaign is aimed at the 28 million EU smokers in the 25 to 34 age range and is powered by iCoach, an innovative digital health platform and a proven tool.
"The most important health intervention of our time worldwide is smoking cessation." said Professor Christina Gratziou of the ERS. "We hope these positive and inspiring messages will help you to love your lungs and embrace an 'Unstoppable' smoke-free future."
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