Tobacco use remains a significant preventable cause of premature death in Canada, with approximately 46,000 people dying from tobacco-related illnesses every year. The Government of Canada has a comprehensive strategy to help Canadians who smoke to quit. It also aims to protect youth and people who do not use tobacco from the dangers of tobacco use and nicotine addiction.
Today, Michael McLeod, Member of Parliament for Northwest Territories, on behalf of the Honourable Ya'ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, announced more than $1.9 million to the Government of the Northwest Territories' Supporting Tobacco Cessation project. This initiative will offer support to individuals who are at an increased health risk due to tobacco use. The program will be implemented in primary care clinics and at Stanton Hospital in Yellowknife.
- The smoking cessation education and support will be expanded across the NWT to include regional centres and remote community health centres in the NWT.
- The project will develop partnership among NWT care providers, Ottawa Model for Smoking Cessation Task Force, and Ottawa Heart Institute to develop training and resources.
- The initiative will develop a community of practice to improve and expand the routine offering of smoking cessation supports across the NWT.
- The project will offer smoking cessation treatment and support to interested patients during clinical visits. It will also be in hospital settings where respiratory therapists will offer support and treatment to individuals while admitted.
- The funding will support travel to and from community health centres to enhance access to care for smaller communities.
This project is funded through the Government of Canada's Substance Use and Addiction Program, outlining the federal government's commitment to helping Canadians maintain and improve their health.
