"SIX times" couples are more likely to quit than single smokers

Lead author Magda Lampridou, of Imperial College London, said, "Quitting smoking can be a lonely business.

"People feel left out when they avoid smoking breaks at work or avoid social occasions. In addition to this, there are symptoms of nicotine withdrawal.

"Partners can distract themselves from their desires by walking around the movies or movies and encouraging alternative activities such as eating healthy foods. Active support works better, rather than harbading. "

Of the 222 partners recruited to help other colleagues quit smoking, 99 were smokers, 40 were former smokers and 83 had never smoked.

Their smoking status was verified by a carbon monoxide breath test and nicotine replacement therapy, including patches and gum, was offered to couples.

Those who both smoked were almost six times more likely to quit after 16 weeks than single smokers.

Ms. Lampridou added: "Previous research has shown that ex-smokers can also positively influence their spouse's attempts to quit, but in this study the effect was not statistically significant. As for non-smoking partners, there is a significant risk that they will adopt the habit of their spouse. "

The results were presented at an event organized by the European Society of Cardiology yesterday.

People who stop smoking can halve their risk of cardiovascular disease.