Allen Carr, the anti smoking guru who helped millions of people across the world give up cigarettes, has died today after losing his battle with lung cancer. He was 72.
Mr Carr, previously a 100-a-day smoker before he stubbed out his last cigarette 23 years ago, built up a global empire teaching people how to successfully pack in the habit.
He was diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer during the summer and died at his home in Malaga, Spain, today surrounded by his family.
A spokesman said when the diagnosis was made: “It is not possible to tell if Allen’s cancer is linked to his previous 100 cigarette-a-day addiction. Allen has spent many years in smoke-filled rooms since he quit, whilst treating smokers for their addiction.
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“He is certain that had he not quit, he would have been dead 20 years ago.”
Mr Carr, a qualified accountant, developed his Easyway method of giving up smoking in 1983 and set up a clinic in south west London. He went on to establish 70 clinics in 30 different countries which treated a total of 45,000 people last year.
His method is a combination of psychotherapy and hypnotherapy that focuses on why smokers continue despite the obvious cost and health risks. He also applied it to drinking and losing weight.
His first book Allen Carr’s Easyway To Stop Smoking, sold more than seven million copies.
Celebrities including Sir Anthony Hopkins, Sir Richard Branson and Ruby Wax are among his supporters who have used his techniques to give up cigarettes.
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Mr Carr previously said: “Given that I am informed that I have cured at least 10 million smokers on a conservative estimation, even if that is the case, it’s a price worth paying.
“Since I smoked my final cigarette, 23 years ago, I have been the happiest man in the world. I still feel the same way today.”
John Dicey, worldwide director of Allen Carr’s Easyway, said today: “This is a tragic and emotional day for everyone involved with Allen Carr’s Easyway organisation, most of whom, as former smokers, owe Allen their lives.
“Our hearts go out to Allen’s family and the millions of former smokers who will be saddened by his passing.
“The fact that a former 100-a-day smoker, having quit in his middle age, lived to the ripe old age of 72 is a tremendous message to all smokers.”
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Mr Carr is survived by his wife, Joyce, his four children, two step-children, 11 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.