National Non-Smoking Week is an opportunity for all Islanders to carefully consider the unnecessary harm caused by tobacco, says Health and Social Services Minister Mildred Dover.
"This year, I would like to encourage all smokers to consider giving up the habit - at least for one day," Ms. Dover said. "Anyone who feels they need help should consult with a health professional, who may be able to help with programs and information that make quitting easier."
"While recognizing that smoking is a personal choice, we also need to remember that the actions of adults have an impact on our children," Ms. Dover said. National Non-Smoking Week is observed from January 20 to 26. Weedless Wednesday is on January 22.
According to a major survey of drug use among Atlantic Canadian students in 1996, high numbers of young people are picking up the tobacco habit.
The Student Drug Use Survey Atlantic Provinces 1996 - a random sample of 3,062 students from grades, 7,9,10, & 12 - indicated that 33% of those students reported smoking cigarettes at least once during the 12 months before the survey. More females (36%) report smoking than do males (30%). More girls are smoking than boys in all grades.
For more information contact: Wendy Pigott, 368-6719.