COPD & Smoking

Key Information

• Progressive Condition: COPD tends to worsen over time.
• The Key Action: While inhalers help manage symptoms, stopping smoking is the only intervention proven to slow the disease down.
• You Are Not Alone: There is effective support available to help you quit.

The Analogy: The Slow-Burning Fire

To understand why quitting is so important, think of the damage in your lungs as a slow-burning fire.

• Smoking: Continuing to smoke is like constantly “fanning the flames,” allowing the fire to spread and cause more damage.
• Quitting: Stopping smoking removes the fuel and prevents the fire from spreading further.

Why Quit Now?

• Irreversible Damage: Damage already done to your lungs cannot be reversed.
• Future Protection: Quitting smoking is the only proven way to slow how quickly COPD progresses, giving you more control over your future health.

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Quitting smoking is difficult, but support and treatments are available that can greatly improve your chances of success.

They can help you build a personalised plan to support you in quitting.

Call: 0800 389 3998
Text: “SMOKEFREE” to 80818

What Happens Next?

If you would like to discuss stopping smoking with someone at the practice, please contact us.

Further Information

For more information about COPD, including symptoms, treatment and living with COPD, please visit the NHS website.

Last reviewed: 31 March 2026
Next review due: 31 March 2029