THE number of people smoking in Essex has fallen to the lowest on record.
Health bosses say the milestone brings the county a step closer to the ambition of becoming smoke-free by 2030.
The latest three-year figures show the number of adults who smoke has dropped from 11 percent to 9.2 cent.
The decrease reflects the contribution of support services across Essex in helping smokers to quit.
They include:
- Free stop-smoking aids and guidance for newer medications if needed.
- One-to-one coaching to help people trying to quit and manage smoking triggers.
- Free access to the online Allen Carr Easyway course.
The county council says the figures show positive progress, but there is still more to do, with smoking rates remaining higher in some of Essex's most deprived communities.
Community services boss Chris Hossack said: "These latest figures are promising and show how stop smoking services in Essex are making a difference.
"Every person who quits smoking is taking an important step towards a healthier future.
"We are proud of the progress made so far, but we know there is still more to do, particularly in communities where smoking rates remain highest.
"We will continue working with our partners to ensure people can access the support they need to quit for good."
For more information, visit Get help to stop smoking | Essex County Council.
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