PRODUCT WATCH ROUNDUP We’ve added new information to ASH Wales Product Watch about nicotine products that may be less familiar. Pouchless nicotine pods have a UK-facing retail listing: these small oral portions have no outer pouch and are not designed to melt. We’ve also added international examples of ultra-thin and semi-gel nicotine pouches, and updated our page on gels, creams, sprays and nasal inhalers. UK or Welsh availability has not been established for those international examples. These updates explain what the products are, what is verified and what remains uncertain. They do not establish how widely any product is used in Wales.
COPD and smoking: it is never too late to stop.
If you have COPD and still smoke, stopping is the most important step you can take to prevent further smoking-related damage to your lungs.
Is there any point stopping now?
Yes. The NHS says stopping smoking is the most effective way to prevent COPD getting worse. The damage already done cannot be reversed, but quitting can help prevent further damage – including in more advanced COPD.
Free support in Wales
Help Me Quit offers free NHS stop smoking support across Wales.
How smoking affects COPD
Smoking is the main preventable cause of COPD. Continued exposure to cigarette smoke keeps irritating and damaging the airways and lung tissue.
What happens when you stop?
Stopping can slow further damage and is a core part of COPD treatment. Your healthcare team may combine quit support with inhalers, pulmonary rehabilitation or other treatment.
For diagnosis or treatment
For breathlessness, flare-ups, medicines, inhalers or treatment decisions, speak to your GP or respiratory team.