The CMA has been a strong advocate and supporter of a smoke-free Canada for decades, spurred by physicians who have seen the harmful effects of tobacco use. We issued our first public warning about the hazards in 1954 and were a contributing force to the federal government’s resolution that tobacco products be sold in plain, standard-sized packages.
While fewer Canadians smoke tobacco today than in previous decades, the rising popularity of electronic cigarettes — also known as “e-cigarettes” or “vapes” — demands attention. While these products don’t contain tobacco, they do include nicotine and flavourings that could potentially cause harm. The CMA is calling for more research into the possible health consequences of these devices and their claims of effectiveness as smoking cessation aids. We also support banning the sale of e-cigarettes to minors and believe the same marketing restrictions that apply to tobacco products should apply to vaping products and devices.
CMA policies on smoking and e-cigarettes
