DOCTORS are encouraging people to think about how they can commit to improving their health this January.

This could be through quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, changes to diet, or doing more exercise.

They said that making these small changes can reduce risk of major illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer.

Dr David White, clinical lead for Urgent Care at East Lancashire and Blackburn with Darwen Clinical Commissioning Groups, said: “The health benefits of regular exercise are well documented and it also improves your wellbeing by increasing self-esteem and confidence.

“Regular exercise doesn’t have to mean joining a gym, there are plenty of free ways to exercise, such as going for a brisk walk or jog. If you combine regular exercise with a healthy balanced diet you could dramatically improve your health.

“Giving up smoking is another resolution you can make to improve your health and there are a range of NHS support services on your doorstep to help you achieve this.”

Initiatives doctors recommend include the Alcohol Concern 'Dry January challenge', where people can stay alcohol free for the rest of the month.

More information is available at: http://www.dryjanuary.org.uk/.