Smokefree campaign tunes into Maori and Pasifika

Smokefree campaign tunes into Maori and Pasifika

The drive over the decade to the nation’s Smokefree 2025 goal must see more smokefree programs tailored to help Maori and Pasifika quit smoking, according to the Auckland Regional Public Health Service.

Ahead of World Smokefree Day on Sunday 31 May, Medical Officer of Health Dr Brad Novak says the country has made stunning progress over the past few years.

“Smokefree environments are now the default setting, and just 13% of Aucklanders at the last census said they were smokers. That means anti-smoking efforts can be more targeted in the future.

“We are seeing progress in Maori and Pasifika. Maori smoking rates have come down from 42% in 2006 to 31% in 2013 according to census data. We have come a long way but smoking among Maori is still twice the Auckland average of 13% and the national average of 15%.”

Pasifika smoking rates in Auckland dropped from 30% to 22% over the same period.

Dr Novak says smoking is often associated with stress, and most smokers have other big challenges in their lives.

“If you are a smoker trying to quit, keep trying. Smoking is addictive so it can take several attempts but the chances of success are much better with support. I’d even say don’t try to quit alone. Calling Quitline on 0800 778 778 is a good place to start,” he says.

It’s also harder to give up smoking when others around you smoke, which is another reason smoking persists in Pacific and Maori communities.

The Smokefree 2025 message ‘It’s about whanau’ reminds smokers who want to quit that they are not alone; that others care for them and that quitting will also help the people around them.

Dr Novak says the Auckland Regional Public Health Service (where the Medical Officers of Health are based) also runs a Pacific Quit Smoking programme.

Pacific Quit Smoking Service facilitators visit smokers at home, at work or wherever they prefer.

“They often involve the family because smoking affects the whole family. A family going smokefree protects future generations.”

Dr Novak says the Pacific Quit service provides a complete package to smokers including information, motivational counselling and free patches, gum or lozenges to break the habit.

“But the key feature is meeting smokers face to face and making regular contact. They get the help they need to keep moving forward.”

Auckland Regional Public Health Service also ensures compliance with tobacco regulations including smokefree environments, and display and sale of tobacco products, especially to people under 18 years of age.

ENDS

© Scoop Media