Peterborough Public Health Honours 2017 Tobacco-Wise Champions
Written by admin, May 31, 2017
May 31, 2017 – Celebrating Community Leaders in Commercial Tobacco Use Prevention for Better Public Health
Today is World No Tobacco Day, and to celebrate Peterborough Public Health recognized several local residents and organizations for their leadership creating a tobacco-wise community here at home.
“It really is a David and Goliath story. Our 2017 Tobacco-Wise Champions are the ‘Davids’ who are making a dent against the gargantuan tobacco industry with its deceptive marketing tactics, strong lobbying efforts and deep pockets,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health for Peterborough Public Health. “They are shining examples of Peterborough’s leadership in commercial tobacco use prevention, and remind us that while we’ve made great headway over the years to denormalize it, we must remain vigilant if we truly want Ontario to have the lowest smoking rates in the country so our next generation can grow up smoke-free and tobacco-wise.”
There were a total of 10 awards recipients from municipalities, schools and school boards, healthcare services, housing providers, and community organizations. The awards were handed out in three categories. First, the “Exceeding the Standards Act Award” recognized organizations and municipalities who have introduced policies that go beyond the Smoke Free Ontario Act. Next, the “Cessation or Prevention Award” honoured schools and organizations that prevent people from starting to use tobacco products, as well as helping them quit smoking and remaining tobacco free. Finally, the “Community Leader Award” celebrated individuals and organizations who contribute to smoking prevention and cessation in our community.
Dr. Salvaterra noted that tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable disease and death in Ontario. Each year, smoking and exposure to second-hand-smoke results in 13,000 deaths provincially. Locally, the use of commercial tobacco products kills approximately 130 Peterborough residents each year. For more information on smoke-free policies, tobacco-wise living or supports for quitting smoking, please contact Peterborough Public Health, or visit the Smoke Free Places page on www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca.
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For further information, please contact:
Keith Beecroft
Health Promoter, Tobacco Use Prevention Program
705-743-1000, ext. 238