Canadian Government Takes Action to Combat Tobacco Use

According to an announcement made by the Canadian government on May 31st, the Canadian Minister of Health, the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, and the Deputy Minister of Health issued a statement on World No Tobacco Day.

The statement emphasizes that in Canada, tobacco use remains a leading preventable cause of disease and premature death, resulting in approximately 46,000 deaths per year. Additionally, nearly 1,000 deaths each year in Canada are attributed to lung cancer or heart disease from secondhand smoke exposure, with the majority of these individuals being non-smokers.

This year's World No Tobacco Day theme is "Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference." The statement indicates a commitment to continue working with domestic and international partners to ensure people's safety and health. The federal government also emphasizes that traditional tobacco holds significant cultural and spiritual importance for many Indigenous peoples, and its use differs from commercial tobacco. Today (May 31st), efforts are being made to further raise awareness about the dangers of commercial tobacco and inform people about the benefits of quitting smoking.

The statement pointed out that this government has strengthened packaging and labeling requirements for tobacco products, making Canada the first country globally to require health warnings printed directly on cigarettes. This approach has been effective in spreading warning messages, particularly among young people.

In addition, the government will provide a total of $9,548,880 CAD ($700.5 USD) in funding through Health Canada and the Community Fund to three organizations, including the Canadian Cancer Society, the University of Toronto, and McMaster University. This funding will help create a social environment to promote tobacco prevention and cessation, targeting populations at risk of tobacco consumption. To assist citizens in quitting smoking, the Canadian government is providing various resources to help young people quit smoking or quit using e-cigarettes.