Canada's Doctors Remind Prime Minister of his Campaign Promise

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(MARKET WIRE)--Jan 14, 2009 -- The Canadian Medical Association and Physicians for a Smoke-Free Canada reminded Prime Minister Harper today that he promised to crack down on the marketing of flavoured tobacco products, like cigarillos, that are aimed at children.

"During the last federal election, Prime Minister Harper promised to get tough with tobacco companies using loopholes, candy flavours and fancy packaging to lure children into nicotine addition," said Dr. Atul Kapur, President of Physicians for a Smoke-Free Canada. "We applauded him for his leadership at the time. Now, on the eve of National Non-Smoking Week, we encourage him to follow through."

"Obviously the economy is a major concern for the government right now but urgent action is required to counter tobacco marketing tactics aimed at children" added Dr. Robert Ouellet, President of the Canadian Medical Association. "Closing loopholes and tightening regulations costs nothing, but it's an investment that will pay huge dividends in the long-run."

While more research needs to be done, Health Canada data from 2006 found that 15% of 15-19 year-olds smoked a cigarillo in the past 30 days compared to 3% of Canadians over the age of 25. Cigarillos are the fastest growing category of tobacco sales and one of the fastest growing consumer products according to the survey firm of AC Neilsen.

The current laws applying to cigarettes (minimum package size, health warning labels, advertising requirements, etc.) do not apply to cigars or cigarillos. On September 17, 2008, Prime Minister Stephen Harper promised to: set minimum package sizes for cigarillos that would make them less affordable for children; prohibit flavour and additives that would appeal to children; and, ban all tobacco advertising and promotion which may be viewed or read by youth.

"We know the Prime Minister has a lot on his plate these days, but this is an easy decision" concluded Dr. Ouellet. "By taking action Parliament will be putting the health of children first and it will have the support and the gratitude of Canada's doctors and Canadian parents."

     Contacts:
     Canadian Medical Association
     Lucie Boileau
     613-731-8610 or 800-663-7336 ext. 1266
     (Cell.) 613-447-866
      
     Physicians for a Smoke-Free Canada
     Cynthia Callard
     613-233-4878 or 613-850-5594