Smokers may get free nicotine patches

Monday 24th July 2006, 12:00AM BST.

PUBLIC health bosses are considering handing out free nicotine patches to help Islanders quit smoking.

Health Minister Stuart Syvret revealed in the States that the measure could be part of a new drive in the ongoing battle against nicotine addiction.

The JEP has also learned that the drug Zyban, which is taken in pill form and helps to stop cravings, could also be available free.

‘We have a responsibility and a duty to assist people to give up smoking,’ the Minister said during States question time on Tuesday.

Dr Rosemary Geller, the Medical Officer of Health, added that she hoped to introduce the new drive to help Islanders quit next year.

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