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By: News Canada

With the implementation of province-wide smoking bans in Ontario and Quebec on May 31st, 2006, Canada has strengthened its position as a world leader in tobacco control. Canadians acknowledge that laws to restrict smoking put pressure on smokers to quit, and they are ready to support smokers attempting to butt out.


According to a recent survey conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of the Canadian Council for Tobacco Control and Pfizer Canada Inc., Pfizer Consumer Healthcare, forty (40%) percent of those who are currently trying to quit say they feel totally alone in their efforts to butt out. The good news is that almost all Canadians (ninety-four 94% percent) said they would support a smoker in their attempt to quit.

Looking for Support?


Smokers trying to quit don't have to do it alone - Canadians are ready and willing to lend a helping hand. The public health system in Canada has developed a number of different approaches to help smokers quit, and Canadians are aware of the different resources available to help them butt out, such as nicotine replacement therapies like the gum and the patch. Smokers can also consult healthcare professionals for additional support when trying to quit.


According to Dr. Rob Weinberg, a family physician in Toronto, "Quitting smoking is one of the most important ways to improve overall health, and it's crucial that patients and physicians speak openly and frequently about the best approach to quitting."


In addition, Canadians feel that the government could do more to support smokers who want to quit. Two thirds (66%) of those surveyed say they would support a program where the provincial health insurance plan covers the cost for nicotine replacement therapy, such as the gum and the patch.


Tips for Success


With the increase in smoke-free legislation in Canada, here are some tips to help make the transition easier for smokers that want to quit:


1. Get active - Increase your physical activity to ward off cravings. Take a long walk, ride a bike, or play a favorite sport like golf or tennis.


2. Snack healthy - keep healthy substitutes at hand. Carrots, celery sticks, sunflower seeds, apples and oranges are great alternatives.

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