Decrease in smoking rates for first half of 2001

The number of persons, aged 15 years and over, who smoke in Newfoundland and Labrador has decreased during this past year. Julie Bettney, Minister of Health and Community Services, said the Canadian Tobacco Use Monitoring Survey, released by Health Canada today, showed that during the first half of 2001, Newfoundland and Labrador had a five per cent decrease in the number of smokers, aged 15 years and over, compared to the same time period for 2000. This is the second highest decrease across the country.

The survey also indicated that from February to June 2001 Newfoundland and Labrador had the lowest percentage (22 per cent) of smokers of all the Atlantic provinces and ranked second across the country, with Ontario.

"These statistics are proof that Newfoundlanders and Labradorians are taking steps towards healthier living," said Minister Bettney. "It is important we take control of our health and create cleaner, smoke-free environments in which to live, especially for our children and youth. I look forward to a continued trend for the remainder of 2001."

Minister Bettney, also reminded residents of the province that this week, January 20 - 26, is National Non-Smoking Week.

"National Non-Smoking Week is a time to reinforce non-smoking messages and encourage healthy living practices," said Minister Bettney. "We want the public to think about the harmful effects of tobacco."

Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable and premature death in Newfoundland and Labrador, yet nearly 1,000 people in the province will die this year due to smoking related illnesses such as lung cancer, heart disease, and emphysema.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has taken a proactive role in promoting non-smoking behaviours. "I am very pleased with the milestones that we have achieved in this province with respect to reducing the negative effects of tobacco use," said Minister Bettney. "Most recently, we have strengthened anti-tobacco legislation by restricting the sale of tobacco products to minors, and as of January 1, 2002 we became the first province in Canada to prohibit smoking in food establishments and other public places where children frequent."

Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-1377.

2002 01 21                         2:50 p.m.