Nearly half of smokers admit to hiding their habits from loved ones, study finds

Nearly three-quarters of smokers have tried to kick the habit in the past, but found it too difficult – and say the ‘Stop Smoking’ ad isn’t right for them

According to research, almost half of smokers admit to hiding their habits from loved ones.

A study of 2,000 smokers found that 43% of those who always swaddled their dog for a walk as an excuse to smoke, while more than half (54%) would say they just love to shop at local stores. shop.

Another 40% suggested taking the crate out to buy a secret cigar, and two-thirds blamed a friend for the smell of smoke.

91% revealed they hid their habits because they didn’t want to upset their partner – while 46% felt guilty.

A spokesman for LloydsPharmacy, which commissioned the research, said: “With the stigma surrounding smoking increasing, it is not uncommon for many smokers to seek to conceal their habit. with loved ones.

“Quitting smoking can be very difficult and many people who have tried it find themselves smoking again shortly after quitting.”

The study also found that the top tactics used by smokers secretly to cover up odors included showering (32%), changing clothes (37%) and leaving windows wide open. their car or home (45%).

And 44% often buy deodorant to cover up the scent.

But despite this, almost half have previously been spotted by someone they’re trying to hide.

It also emerged that more than four in ten people hide their habits from loved ones out of shame and 51% feel that they will be judged if someone finds out.

More than a quarter of smokers would happily lie to someone they don’t know well about their smoking – while a surprising 36% admit to filling out professional forms incorrectly.

More than seven in ten have tried to quit before, but 83% find it too difficult – as the average smoker lasts less than four months before smoking a cigarette again.

Half of those who decide to wave the white flag because it helps them relax, while 43% simply miss it too much.

And the next 28% found that “smoking cessation treatments” didn’t work for them, according to OnePoll research.

The average smoker smokes a total of nine cigarettes per day, of which at least three are smoked secretly.

But 59% of smokers plan to give it up in the near future – with saving money as the main driver.

More than a third of them (37 per cent) would do it to improve and protect the health of their family members, while 70 per cent would like to do it for their own health and happiness .

The spokesperson added: “The good news is that there are many things you can do to really help kick the habit and encourage a healthy new lifestyle.

“At LloydsPharmacy, we have a wide range of ‘Stop Smoking’ services and tools available online and on the website for anyone looking to start that journey.

“Whether it’s advice from one of our pharmacists, motivation from our blog posts, or help from the hundreds of products available online and in stores, we’re here to help. support.”

For those who want to learn more, visit here to choose from a wide range of Stop Smoking services, advice and support.