To the editor,
It’s National Non-Smoking Week, and Ontario has a historic opportunity to reduce health care costs and reform the tobacco industry.
Over many decades, “Big Tobacco” has engaged in deception and targeted marketing that has addicted youth and resulted in immense suffering, disease and premature death for so many people. The devastating impacts of tobacco use in Ontario is extensive and undeniable – 1.4 million (11 per cent) still smoke tobacco, with 16,000 tobacco-related deaths and $2.2 billion in health care costs every year.
All 10 provinces have filed lawsuits against the tobacco industry, collectively seeking more than $500 billion in damages, and right now the Ontario government is negotiating a settlement with Big Tobacco.
To prevent disease and save lives, it’s vital that the settlement implement strict new controls on the tobacco industry, and establish substantial long-term funding for tobacco control through an independent fund. We must protect future generations. As such, the Canadian Cancer Society urges Premier Doug Ford to use this monumental opportunity to hold Big Tobacco accountable and prevent future harm to Ontarians.
Andrea Seale
CEO, Canadian Cancer Society
