The Foundation Against Cancer launched its ‘Buddy Deal’ campaign for the fourth time on Tuesday.
This end smoking campaign challenges cigarette users to quit during the month of May with the support of a ‘Buddy’.
Participants commit to not smoking for at least a month, supported by a friend, family member, or colleague who motivates them and promises a small reward if they succeed.
All participants also have access to a range of tools to help them quit. Actor and recent ex-smoker Mathias Vergels is the campaign ambassador this year.
According to figures from Sciensano, nearly one in five people in Belgium smokes, although 73.5% of smokers want to quit. "Tobacco prevention and cessation remains a priority in cancer prevention," stated the Foundation Against Cancer.
The foundation notes that quitting smoking can lead to health benefits within the first 24 hours. After one year, the risk of heart disease is halved, and after five years, the risk of stroke and certain cancers is also halved.
The foundation emphasises the importance of the first few weeks in quitting smoking and aims to provide extra support during the first month to prevent relapse.
Interested individuals can register by 30 April on the website www.buddydeal.be, with or without a ‘Buddy’.
