May 1, 2019 – Today, Canada continues to lead the way when it comes to tobacco regulations. Sixty-five years after the CMA issued the first warnings about the health hazards of tobacco, we’re pleased to see the federal government implement world-leading packaging regulations. With tobacco still a leading cause of preventable disease, measures such as regulating promotional channels are important to further reducing smoking rates in Canada.
While this is an important step, the CMA wants to remind Canadians of the increasing concerns around e-cigarettes and vaping products. Stricter marketing regulations are required as the use of these products – especially by teens – is on the rise. With their long-term health impacts still relatively unknown, we should all work towards avoiding the mistakes of the past and move to address the marketing and promotion of e-cigarettes and vaping products immediately.
Dr. Gigi Osler
CMA President