Celebrating Community Leaders in Tobacco Use Prevention for Better Public Health
Written by admin, May 31, 2016
May 31, 2016 – Peterborough Public Health Hands Out 2016 Tobacco-Wise Awards
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n recognition of World No Tobacco Day today, Peterborough Public Health (formerly Peterborough Public Health) honoured several local residents and organizations for their leadership in helping to create a tobacco-wise community.
“We’re thrilled to celebrate the hard work of these local champions whose efforts to reduce tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke are making a real difference in the health of our community,” said Dr. Rosana Salvaterra, Medical Officer of Health for Peterborough Public Health. “They are shining examples of Peterborough’s leadership in tobacco use prevention, and remind us that while we’ve made great headway over the years to denormalize it, we must remain vigilant if we truly want Ontario to have the lowest smoking rates in the country so our next generation can grow up smoke-free and tobacco-wise.”
There were a total of 12 awards recipients from municipalities, schools and school boards, mental health service providers, real estate companies, and community organizations. The awards were handed out in three categories. First, the “Exceeding the Standards Act Award” recognized organizations and municipalities who have introduced policies that go beyond the Smoke Free Ontario Act. Next, the “Cessation or Prevention Award” honoured schools and organizations that prevent people from starting to use tobacco products, as well as helping them quit smoking and remaining tobacco free. Finally, the “Community Leader Award” celebrated individuals and organizations who contribute to smoking prevention and cessation in our community.
Dr. Salvaterra noted that this year’s awards coincide with the tenth anniversary of the Smoke Free Ontario Act. Tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable disease and death in Ontario. Each year, smoking and exposure to second-hand-smoke results in 13,000 deaths provincially. Locally, the use of commercial tobacco products kills approximately 130 Peterborough residents each year. For more information on smoke-free policies, tobacco-wise living or supports for quitting smoking, please contact Peterborough Public Health, or visit the Smoke Free Places page on www.peterboroughpublichealth.ca.
Backgrounder – Tobacco-Wise Awards
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For further information, please contact:
Keith Beecroft
Health Promoter, Tobacco Use Prevention Program
705-743-1000, ext. 238