New campaign highlights the deadly link between smoking and cardiovascular disease for the Victorian Chinese community

Quit Victoria and partners have launched a new public education campaign that highlights the immediate and deadly effects of cigarette smoke on the heart and they’re hoping the Victorian Chinese community is going to heed the message.

Campaign materials designed to speak directly to the Victorian Chinese community were developed after consultation with the Victorian Chinese community, and with the help of the Australian Chinese Medical Association of Victoria and the Chinese Cancer and Chronic Illness Society of Victoria. The materials will appear on Weibo and WeChat, and radio ads from the campaign will be broadcast on 3CW Chinese radio. 

The campaign shows that within minutes of inhaling cigarette smoke, the blood becomes sticky, constricting the artery walls and making it harder to pump blood around the body. Sticky blood increases the chance of blood clots forming in the artery wall which can lead to a catastrophic heart attack.  

Dr Nora Lee, from the Australian Chinese Medical Association of Victoria, said stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do for your physical health.

“Many people in our community don’t know they can get help to stop smoking from the Quitline and they can speak in Cantonese or Mandarin if they wish. I encourage all Chinese Victorian people, and all GPs working with Chinese Victorians, to call the Quitline.”

Dr Lee said as well as the important health benefits of stopping smoking, quitting can also positively impact people’s health and wellbeing.

“Quitting smoking has immediate physical benefits, but many people who stop smoking also report feeling happier, calmer and less stressed after they quit,” she said. 

“Stopping smoking will also save you money. Don’t let cigarettes own your finances – take control and spend your money on the things that make you happy and can improve the quality of your life,” Dr Lee said.

Director of Quit Victoria, Dr Sarah White said that Quit had created a simple system for people to call a dedicated phone line and leave a message in either Mandarin or Cantonese to have the Quitline call back with an interpreter. 

“People can call us in Mandarin on 9514 6791 or in Cantonese on 9514 6792, leave their name, phone number and the best time to call. Whether or not you’re ready to quit, we’re here to chat and to provide support.”

For more, visit quit.org.au/chinese.