Grey Bruce Public Health is highlighting resources available as it marks National Non-Smoking Week.
Ending Jan. 21, Physician Consultant at Grey Bruce Public Health Dr. Rim Zayed says, smoking cigarettes and vaping both have serious health risks that are deeply concerning to public health.
“Commercial tobacco use is the leading cause of premature death and disease in Canada. Almost every organ in the body is impacted by cigarette smoke, which can contribute to chronic diseases from heart and lung diseases to cancers. The health harms of commercial tobacco can also impact non-smokers through second and third-hand smoke. Vapes and e-cigarettes, meanwhile, generate aerosols that contain potentially toxic substances, which can be harmful to a person’s health,” says Zayed.
Public Health says residents in the region are more likely to use commercial tobacco products compared to the provincial and national average according to data from Stats Canada. In 2019-20, about 16.6 per cent of Grey-Bruce respondents ages 12 and up reported smoking cigarettes daily.
Public Health adds youth vaping is also a growing concern, with one study showing 13 per cent of youth between the ages of 15 and 19 in Canada reported having vaped at least once over the previous 30-day period. Other studies indicate youth who vape are more likely to take up smoking.
During this week, public health will be sharing details on its social media channels about the benefits. More details can be found on its website here.
