Health Minister’s Statement on National Non-Smoking Week
National Non-Smoking Week is a time to reflect on the benefits of a smoke-free life. It’s also a time to ensure there is support and resources available for those who hope to quit smoking.
Since launching Canada’s Tobacco Strategy in 2018, we have made progress towards achieving our goal of reducing tobacco use to less than 5% by 2035. Health Canada’s 2026 progress report, Delivery Results: Advancing Canada’s Tobacco Strategy shows that we are on track to achieving our goals and this target is now within reach. Smoking rates in Canada are now among the lowest in the world and continue to fall. Today, fewer than 1% of youth smoke daily, giving an entire generation lifelong health benefits. We must build on this success.
Smoking rates vary across the country, and many people still face barriers to quitting. Quitting programs must continue to evolve and adapt to better meet the unique needs of communities. We are taking steps to address this, including by funding projects through the Substance Use and Addictions Program. Smoke-Free Connect, a virtual hub led by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in partnership with other national organizations, helps reach people facing barriers to quitting, including individuals in rural and other communities where the need for smoking cessation is high and access to services is limited.
We are also working with Indigenous communities and organizations to support community-driven and culturally grounded approaches that reduce commercial tobacco use and protect youth and people who do not use tobacco from nicotine addiction.
As of 2024, about 13% of Canadians continue to use a tobacco product and the majority of tobacco product use is cigarette smoking (11%). For those who want to quit, support is available. You can access resources through the Tools for a Smoke-Free Life campaign, call the pan-Canadian quit line at 1-866-366-3667, or visit Gosmokefree.gc.ca/quit to build a quit plan and access support and referrals to local programs.
Speaking to a health care provider or pharmacist and reaching out to family and friends for additional support can also help. Visit Canada.ca/mental-health
https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/news/2026/01/statement-from-the-minister-of-health-on-national-non-smoking-week.html
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