MOH Recognises Programme That Offers Customised Quit Plans To Help Smokers Kick The Habit
With the mQuit programme, you'll also get a free consultation with a pharmacist until the end of June.
By Shiffa Aziz — 03 Jun 2022, 12:19 PM
The National Health & Morbidity Survey 2019 estimates that more than 27,000 of Malaysians' deaths are smoking-related
The same survey also estimates that there are around 4.7 million smokers in Malaysia. In light of these worrying numbers, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has taken the necessary steps to strengthen all activities towards enhancing the existing Tobacco Control programme, as well as other measures.
According to practising pharmacist Yong Wen Mei, smoking is the greatest preventable cause of non-communicable diseases (NCD) and death
"Smoking is also one of the most common risk factors of the four main NCD groups: cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic lung disease, and diabetes.
"We understand that it can be incredibly tough to quit smoking, as smokers might face different obstacles throughout their journey. Hence, it's important for them to be prepared for the challenges ahead and know how to overcome them," she said.
She believes that having the right support and resources is important for smokers to manage their resolution of quitting smoking.
"Therefore, they can always seek advice from pharmacists who are certified in providing smoking cessation services. Assessments will be carried out based on the individual's smoking habits before we recommend what products are suitable for them," she added.
In conjunction with World No Tobacco Day, Nicorette is collaborating with mQuit Services, a programme recognised by MOH, to help 25,000 smokers take the first step to stop smoking
Known as the #SamaSamaStop campaign, the overall aim is to encourage smokers in Malaysia to kickstart a healthier lifestyle.
Simply visit any participating pharmacy under this campaign, and you'll be entitled to a free, one-on-one consultation with a pharmacist. Plus, you'll also get a customised quit plan with a starter kit!
Here is the list of participating pharmacies:
- Alpro Pharmacy
- Caring Pharmacy
- Health Lane Family Pharmacy
The #SamaSamaStop campaign is aligned with MOH's mQuit Services programme, which was established in 2015 to urge all smokers to quit smoking and vaping
Due to a lack of access to smoking cessation services, smokers fail to give up the habit. That's why the mQuit Services programme was created in collaboration with health professionals, NGOs, and private companies, to improve the infrastructure of smoking cessation services and its accessibility in the country.
You can also consider using nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products like Nicorette, to help kick your smoking habit once and for all
Nicorette's NRT products do well to relieve withdrawal symptoms and reduce nicotine cravings, which you may experience when you first stop smoking. Apart from that, NRT can also assist to cut down the number of cigarettes you smoke on a daily basis.
Here are two different Nicorette products that can help you stop smoking:
- Nicorette Invisi Transdermal Patch: Controlled amounts of nicotine absorb through skin into the bloodstream, helping to control nicotine cravings for up to 16 hours
- Nicorette Gum: Works fast to relieve cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Available in two different strengths: 2mg or 4mg.
Ready to #SamaSamaStop smoking? Head over to your nearest Alpro Pharmacy, Caring Pharmacy, or Health Lane Family Pharmacy to get a free consultation and starter kit today!
The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader's own medical care.
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KKLIU: 1486/2022. This is a medicine product advertisement. This product is not suitable for children. Do not use this product if you have serious heart disease, are pregnant or breastfeeding. Not to be used by non-smokers. Consult your healthcare professional before use.
