Recent Statistics Canada data shows smoking rates increased during 2023 and 2024, the first time in at least a decade

You can save this article by registering for free here. Or sign-in if you have an account.

By: Frank Silva

Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.

Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

National Non-Smoking Week (Jan. 18-24) should have been a period of accountability. Not symbolism. Not slogans. It should be about results.

For more than two decades, Canada has introduced regulations to reduce smoking rates. However, lack of enforcement has rendered many of them largely symbolic. Worse, recent Statistics Canada data show smoking rates increased during 2023 and 2024, the first time in at least a decade. It is a warning sign that Canada’s current approach is failing.

If Ottawa is serious about reaching its stated goal of reducing smoking prevalence below five per cent by 2035, it must confront the truth: federal policy is making it harder, not easier, for adult smokers to quit.

Imperial Tobacco is aligned with Health Canada on this goal. We agree with health organizations’ recommendations and have the same ambition: preventing youth access, expanding cessation support, strengthening........

© Windsor Star