Abdul quits tobacco ahead of Ramadan thanks to Be Well Tameside

A HYDE resident has made a life-changing decision by quitting tobacco-containing paan after 30 years, with the support of Be Well Tameside.

Abdul Hannan, 41 and from Hyde, said: “I wanted as much help and support as I could get, so I searched for a local stop-smoking service, and Be Well Tameside came up. I wanted to quit for my health and to live a healthier life for my kids.”

Paan, a mixture of betel nut, chewing tobacco, and limestone wrapped in a leaf, had been part of Abdul’s life since the age of 11. Now 41, he decided it was time to quit for the sake of his health and family.

With the guidance of Jemma, a Be Well Tameside Health Improvement Worker, Abdul was provided with multiple options to quit. “From day one, Jemma was an absolute superstar. She helped me by giving me different ways to stop and checking which option suited me best. She put me on Nicorette gum and a vape, which helped me loads.”

Since quitting, Abdul has noticed significant improvements in his health. He said: “I feel a lot healthier - no more chest pains. I’ve even started going to the gym to improve my fitness, and I can stay in the gym longer now because my health has improved.”

Encouraging others who may be considering quitting, Abdul urges them not to delay. “Don’t wait for the ‘right time.’ Just do it straight away. Your willpower and mindset must be set, and you have to be determined. Think about your loved ones, not just yourself.”

Cllr Taf Sharif, Tameside Council Executive Member for Population Health and Wellbeing, said: “With Ramadan approaching, this is a great time for those fasting or not to reflect on their health and wellbeing. Be Well Tameside provides invaluable support for those looking to quit smoking or paan, and I encourage anyone considering making a positive change to reach out for help.”

Be Well Tameside offers free stop-smoking and tobacco-free support, including expert advice, with a wide range of different stop smoking aids, including vapes, and ongoing behaviour support to help people achieve their goals of quitting smoking or other tobacco products.

For more information about Be Well Tameside and the support available, visit www.tameside.gov.uk/bewelltameside or call 0161 342 5050.