World No Tobacco Day is May 31st. You probably didn't know that. But now that you do, take a moment to consider why ridding ourselves of tobacco misuse is an important quality of life issue for everyone here on the Coast.
Our smoking rate (approximately 18 per cent) is higher than in most other areas in the region. While usually we all welcome being ahead, in this particular case -with smoking being the number one cause of preventable death, and death being bad -our increased rates are nothing to be proud of.
Our bylaws are behind, way behind, actually non-existent. While communities in the rest of the province are creating municipal laws banning smoking on patios, beaches, and parks, we still allow smoking on all three. These bans help quitters quit, prevent exposure to second hand smoke, and help shift public attitudes towards smoking.
No one likes to be manipulated. I am new to the community, but from what I have seen I would think this goes double for Coastal people. However, while smokers think they are making a choice to light up, the reality is that tobacco companies spend nearly $29 million each day on marketing. With all that time spent convincing you to consume one of the most addictive and harmful drugs available, it is hard to see it as anything but manipulation.
On Thursday May 30, we are marking World No Tobacco Day at the Sechelt Health Unit (5571 Inlet Ave.) from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Everyone is welcome. This open house will include: a quitters' panel, ex-smokers tell their stories and take questions, swag for anyone who commits to smoking less or quitting for the day, resources available like pamphlets, quitting guides and more for your clients, students, family members etc., lunch and a chance to win a $40 certificate to a local restaurant.
Editor's note: for more information, or to help reduce tobacco misuse on the Coast, contact Caitlin Etherington, tobacco reduction coordinator with Vancouver Coastal Health at 604-885-8708 or email [email protected].
