Tobacco use remains a significant preventable cause of disease and premature death in Canada, claiming the lives of approximately 46,000 Canadians each year. Second-hand smoke compounds this tragic loss, contributing to nearly 1,000 deaths annually, with children and infants being especially at risk.
Ahead of World No Tobacco Day, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting Canadians from the harms of tobacco and nicotine products, and making informed decision about their health. This year's theme, Unmasking the Appeal - Countering Tobacco and Nicotine Addiction, speaks to product design and appeal. Canada is a global leader in tobacco packaging and labelling restrictions. In 2023, Canada was the first country to require health warnings on individual cigarettes and introduced new graphic health warnings and quit messaging on cigarettes packages. In the coming weeks, the next rotation of messages will appear on cigarette packages and be fully implemented by August 1, 2026.
The Government of Canada is also committed to helping people quit smoking and vaping, and keeping tobacco and vaping products out of the hands of youth through concrete measures outlined in The Tobacco and Vaping Products Act. Since the launch of Canada's Tobacco Strategy, significant progress has been made, with an estimated 13% of Canadians reporting past 30-day use of any tobacco product. Smoking among youth has dropped to an all-time low of less than 2%, and vaping rates among youth have also been in decline.
For those who want to quit, support is available. Canadians can access free, confidential support to help them quit smoking or vaping, through the pan-Canadian toll-free Quitline available at 1-866-366-3667 or online at Gosmokefree.gc.ca/quit
