Muslims in Tower Hamlets are being supported in the run up to Ramadan in their efforts to give up tobacco.

The ‘Quit Tobacco Before Ramadan’ campaign opens today, with residents being encouraged to pledge to stop chewing or smoking to prevent nicotine cravings when the holy month starts.

Ramadan begins on the evening of May 15 and will last until June 14.

Dr Somen Banerjee, council director of public health, said: “As Ramadan is a time for abstaining from addictive substances, quitting before it begins is a great way to kick start your health and benefit from reducing your risk of lung cancer, heart disease and stroke.

“Local stop smoking advisers are always available but they will be even more accessible over the next two weeks to offer advice on free services and quitting options.”

Last year, 1,350 people quit smoking in the borough with the help of council services. See the table for a list of Quit Right Tower Hamlets advice sessions over the next fortnight.