Monday, May 30, 2016
Perth District Health Unit
World No Tobacco Day Marks 10 Year Anniversary of Smoke-Free Ontario Strategy
On May 31, 2016, the Perth District Health Unit celebrates World No Tobacco Day and the 10th anniversary of the Smoke-Free Ontario Act and Strategy. World No Tobacco Day is recognized annually to raise awareness of the dangers of tobacco and the important work still to be done in tobacco control.
Some of the key achievements over the last 10 years include:
- Smoking bans in all enclosed public and work places
- Restricting the retail promotion and display of tobacco products
- Banning the sale of flavoured cigarillos
- Banning smoking on and around children's playgrounds and publicly owned sports fields and surfaces
- Banning smoking on bar and restaurant patios
The Smoke-free Ontario Strategy helps smokers quit, protects people from exposure to second-hand smoke and encourages young people never to start. It has led to over 400,000 fewer smokers and billions in attributable health care cost savings.
Despite these efforts and successes, there is more to be done, says Adrienne Adas, Public Health Promoter. "We have made some amazing accomplishments through the implementation of the Smoke-Free Ontario Strategy, but tobacco use still remains a serious public health concern in Ontario."
Adas says that there are many supports for Perth County residents who want to quit smoking. "All residents have access to stop smoking support programs, which include free nicotine replacement therapy. Talk to your doctor or call the Health Unit to find our your options."
For more information:
- To book an appointment at the Stop Smoking Clinic, call 519-271-7600 ext 222 or toll-free at 1-877-271-7348 ext 722
- For more information on the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, or to report a smoking offense, call 519-271-7600 ext 772 or toll-free at 1-877-271-7348 ext 722
- Visit www.pdhu.on.ca
- Follow us on Facebook and Twitter @ PDHealthUnit
Media Contact:
Rebecca Hill
Communications Manager
519-271-7600 ext 279
rhill@pdhu.on.ca
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