HSE’s QUIT marks World No Tobacco Day

This World No Tobacco Day (Sunday, 31 May 2026) the HSE is reminding smokers that you can #TakeBackControl and quit smoking with the help of the HSE’s QUIT services.

The HSE is supporting thousands of people across the country to QUIT for good though smoking cessation supports and free nicotine replacement therapy (NTR). One such person is Stephen Ahern (42) from Whitegate, Cork who has recently celebrated the milestone of 52 weeks free of cigarettes.

Stephen said: “I decided to quit as I have young kids now and I wanted to be around a bit longer.  I started off with the patches and they really helped with the cravings.  I wouldn’t have been able to do it without the support from QUIT.  The best thing about quitting is that my health has improved and I have more money in my pocket!”

Martina Blake, National Lead, HSE Tobacco Free Ireland Programme, said: “We have Stop Smoking Advisors ready to help you take the first step to being an ex-smoker with simple, practical and effective support, maximising your chance of staying quit for good.  Evidence informs us that once a person gets to 28 days smoke free, they are up to 5 times more likely to stay quit for good. Just look at Stephen; he is proof that accessing the support from HSE’s QUIT service and free nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) can help you stop smoking for good, be healthier, and save money.”

Free, personalised HSE QUIT supports

HSE QUIT services are free and available all year round. The QUIT service provides personalised, evidence-based plans, tailored to your needs.

using any combination of the support options:

• visit quit.ie
• Freephone QUITline on 1800 201 203
• text 'QUIT' to 50100

You can avail of:

• an online-personalised Quit plan where you can track your progress – available on quit.ie or on the HSE Health App
• face to face and group support from local community based services
• a free Quit Kit to help you prepare
• advice on Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) and stop smoking medication
• daily tips and support from people who have quit and who are trying to quit on the You Can Quit Facebook page.