Celebrate World No Tobacco Day on May 31

Kingston - Every year on May 31, the World Health Organization and partners around the world celebrate World No Tobacco Day. For over 30 years, the day has highlighted the health risks associated with tobacco use and aims to advocate for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption. This year, the campaign is raising awareness about the negative impacts of tobacco use on lung health.

Tobacco smoking is the most common cause of lung cancer and is also the leading cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Exposure to second-hand smoke puts others at risk of developing lung cancer, chronic respiratory disease, and reduced lung function. Children are especially vulnerable to the effects of second-hand smoke. It is estimated that each year, 165 000 children around the world die before the age of 5 from lower respiratory infections caused by second-hand smoke.

The hashtag #NoTobacco is being used on social media to support World No Tobacco Day.

If you would like to celebrate World No Tobacco Day by making a quit smoking attempt:

• call the Tobacco Information Line at KFL&A Public Health 613-549-1232 ext. 1333 or the Smokers Helpline 1-877-513-5333, or
• visit www.ontario.ca/page/how-quit-smoking.