Health district supports Aboriginal services targeting smoking and vaping

NORTHERN NSW Local Health District is expanding support to help people quit smoking and vaping, rolling out free nicotine replacement therapy across Aboriginal services in the region.

The initiative focuses on improving health outcomes, particularly for pregnant women and Aboriginal communities, with support delivered through hospitals, maternity services and partners including Bullinah Aboriginal Medical Service and Rekindling the Spirit.

Despite declining smoking rates, about 13 per cent of adults in the district, around 34,700 people, still smoke.

Acting director of Aboriginal health, oral health and health promotion Cameron Johnson said removing cost barriers was key to helping more people quit.

“Quitting smoking is one of the most important things someone can do for their health, and having access to free nicotine replacement therapy can make a real difference,” he said.

Therapy is available during pregnancy and up to six weeks after birth, while hospital patients can access short-term support when discharged to help them stay smoke-free at home.

Additional support is available through the NSW Quitline and the iCanQuit website.