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Smoking in Canada

tobacco smoking-related health problems account for 11% of deaths.

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August 25, 2025 by cmaj.ca

Recommendations on interventions for tobacco smoking cessation in adults in Canada

Tobacco smoking is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in Canada. The objective of this Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care guideline is to provide primary care providers with evidence-based recommendations on smoking cessation options for nonpregnant adults aged 18 years or older who smoke tobacco cigarettes.

August 25, 2025 by cbc.ca

Want to quit cigarettes? Vaping is far from a go-to, Canadian guideline says

A new Canadian guideline advises against using e-cigarettes or vapes as a first choice to quit smoking, recommending proven methods like medications and counseling instead. Despite declining smoking rates, tobacco remains a top cause of preventable cancer deaths. The guideline highlights the risks of vaping, citing lack of long-term safety data and stresses the effectiveness of nicotine replacements like patches. It discourages alternative treatments and notes the need for further research, including on the efficacy of AI-based therapy. Overall, quitting smoking is challenging but achievable with the right support and strategies.

August 25, 2025 by cbc.ca

Want to quit cigarettes? Vaping is far from a go-to, Canadian guideline says

A new Canadian guideline advises against using e-cigarettes or vapes as a first choice to quit smoking, recommending proven methods like medications and counseling instead. Despite declining smoking rates, tobacco remains a top cause of preventable cancer deaths. The guideline highlights the risks of vaping, citing lack of long-term safety data and stresses the effectiveness of nicotine replacements like patches. It discourages alternative treatments and notes the need for further research, including on the efficacy of AI-based therapy. Overall, quitting smoking is challenging but achievable with the right support and strategies.

August 22, 2025 by hilltimes.com

One year in, Canada’s nicotine pouch ban still defies public health logic

It has now been a year since then–Health Minister Mark Holland introduced a federal order that limited the sale of nicotine pouches—used as smoking-cessation aids—to behind-the-counter access in pharmacies. The measure removed them from convenience stores nationwide in Canada and restricted permitted flavours in pharmacies to only mint and menthol.

May 25, 2025 by westernstandard.news

EL CHIDIAC: Why does Canada follow UN guidelines in its war on smokers?

Most Canadians are unaware of the WHO’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), despite Canada signing and ratifying it 20 years ago. The treaty, adopted by 182 countries, influences smoking and harm reduction policies worldwide. In Canada, critics argue that FCTC’s strict regulations have led to a rigid, anti-harm-reduction stance that may be harming smokers seeking to quit.

May 07, 2025 by rights4vapers.com

Rights4Vapers Congratulates New Liberal Government, Urges Action On Safer Nicotine Policy Reform

Rights4Vapers congratulates the Liberal Party on forming the new federal government in Canada. They urge Prime Minister Mark Carney and the Health Ministers to prioritize harm reduction and Canadians' health with evidence-based nicotine policies. The advocacy group stresses the importance of distinguishing safer nicotine products like vaping devices from traditional cigarettes and establishing a Safer Nicotine Act. They call for the reversal of restrictions on nicotine pouch sales and emphasize the need for updated regulations to support smoking cessation effectively.

May 05, 2025 by westernstandard.news

OLDCORN: Australia’s tobacco tax fiasco offers Canada a smoking hot warning

Australia's tobacco excise revenue plummeted to $7.4 billion AUD this year from $16.3 billion AUD in 2019‑20, despite high taxes. Smokers turned to cheaper contraband due to tax hikes, leading to a 50% revenue drop in five years. Canadian authorities should pay attention as they increase taxes and regulations, resulting in a rise in vape store robberies across the country.

April 28, 2025 by westernstandard.news

Conservatives to end pharmacy only rule for nicotine pouches, ‘freedom of choice’

A Conservative government plans to allow smokers to purchase nicotine pouches at corner stores and gas stations, overturning the Liberal policy of restricting sales to pharmacies under the Food and Drugs Act. The Conservatives emphasize freedom of choice for adults and access to less harmful alternatives for those trying to quit smoking. Currently, Health Canada has licensed Zonnic as a nicotine pouch for smoking cessation.

April 09, 2025 by westernstandard.news

Health Canada guidance on Nicotine Replacement Therapies, a call for evidence-based reforms

Imperial Tobacco Canada is urging Health Canada to implement evidence-based regulations for Nicotine Replacement Therapy, warning that strict rules may hinder public health by curtailing access to effective products. In response to Health Canada's Draft Guidance on Nicotine Replacement Therapy Dosage Forms, ITCAN criticized the criteria for approving new NRT products as flawed. The company argues that the guidance's requirement for new NRTs to prevent misuse by non-smokers is unrealistic and could impede innovation, pushing consumers towards illicit markets.

March 19, 2025 by citynews.ca

First vaping cessation program in Quebec for young adults

The Canadian Cancer Society launched a vaping cessation program for young adults in Quebec, aiming to help combat the health risks associated with vaping. The program, titled “Aspire à mieux,” offers tailored support to help young people quit vaping, as 22% of those aged 18 to 24 in Quebec use vaping products. The initiative includes personalized text messaging, a mobile app, and peer support groups. With concerns over misinformation about the safety of vaping, the program provides accessible resources and assistance. The success of the pilot program led to its expansion to the general public.