- New analysis reveals which months are the most popular to give up smoking in the UK, with January taking the top spot
- March ranks second, with 438,830 average monthly searches for quitting smoking made across the UK
- December is the least popular month in the UK for quitting smoking, with only 355,190average monthly searches
New research has revealed that interest in quitting smoking peaks at certain times of the year, with January taking the top spot.
The study conducted byGo Smoke Free, analysed Google searches for quitting-related terms made across 165 UK regions over a three-year period such as ‘give up smoking’, ‘smoking cessation aids’, and ‘nicotine gum’, to find the times of the year people are most interested in quitting smoking.
January is the number one time to quit smoking in the UK, with 440,670 average monthly searches for terms related to quitting smoking.
This spike in searches during January can be attributed to New Year’s resolutions, where people set goals for the upcoming year that often focus on improving their health. The start of a new year symbolises a fresh start for many, with quitting smoking being a top priority.
March is the second most popular time in the UK to kick the habit, with an average of438,830monthly searches for terms related to quitting smoking.
The UK observesNational No Smoking Day in March, an annual campaign to encourage people to quit smoking. The spike in search volume during March is likely due to the awareness caused by this event, with individuals being motivated by social campaigns and increased public discussions around the topic.
May ranks third, with 410,920 average monthly searches for terms related to quitting smoking.
May marks the onset of spring, a time when people start to engage in more outdoor activities. Many people begin to make changes to their health and fitness habits around this time so they can better engage in outdoor physical activity and improve their physique in time for summer.
Placing fourth is October, with an average of406,510 monthly searches for terms related to quitting smoking.
The UK government runs the Stoptober campaign every October, specifically designed to encourage smokers to quit for 28 days. The campaign is heavily promoted across media channels and there is a sense of collective effort, which could explain the significant uptick in searches related to quitting smoking during October.
November is the fifth most popular month to quit smoking in the UK, with 402,570 average monthly searches.
November, following Stoptober’s quit-smoking campaign, benefits from a lingering focus on health awareness. This momentum, coupled with the approach of winter and increased time spent indoors, where smoking is often restricted, can create a conducive environment for those considering quitting.
The least popular month for quitting smoking is December, with 355,190 average monthly searches.
December is the least popular month for quitting smoking in the UK due to the festive holiday season, which often brings with it heightened stress, as many people prepare for large social gatherings and increased spending. With events like Christmas and New Year’s Eve, people may want to indulge in smoking as part of celebrations or to cope with the pressures of the festive season.
The mindset for most people during this time is often focused on relaxation and enjoyment, with many postponing serious lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, until January.
The most popular times of year to quit smoking in the UK.
|
Rank |
Month |
Average monthly search volume for terms related to quitting smoking |
|
1 |
January |
440,670 |
|
2 |
March |
438,830 |
|
3 |
May |
410,920 |
|
4 |
October |
406,510 |
|
5 |
November |
402,570 |
|
6 |
April |
400,610 |
|
7 |
June |
397,040 |
|
8 |
September |
383,310 |
|
9 |
July |
371,370 |
|
10 |
August |
370,320 |
|
11 |
February |
369,240 |
|
12 |
December |
355,190 |
A spokesperson for Go Smoke Free commented on the findings:
“In light of recent analysis revealing seasonal trends in smoking cessation attempts, it’s paramount to recognise the significant impact of public health initiatives like Stoptober and New Year’s resolutions in motivating individuals towards healthier lifestyles.
“January, March, and May emerge as pivotal moments when people are most inclined to quit smoking, underscoring the influence of societal and seasonal factors on health-related behaviours.
“This data not only highlights the collective desire for improved well-being but also underscores the importance of targeted support and resources during these peak times. By understanding and leveraging these trends, we can enhance the effectiveness of smoking cessationefforts and campaigns to build a healthier society.”
