From January 19 to 25, 2025, the Quebec Council on Tobacco and Health (CQTS), in collaboration with its partners and the Ministry of Health and Social Services, is launching the 48th edition of the Week for a Tobacco-Free Quebec.
This campaign aims to raise awareness among the Quebec population of the harms of smoking and to encourage smokers to quit.
The devastating impact of smoking
This year’s campaign focuses on how tobacco can disrupt family life in an instant. A poignant advert illustrates this reality through the portrait of a mother rushing her children after their father suffered a stroke due to smoking. “Beyond the statistics, this ad shows the real impact of tobacco on the lives of families. We hope that this will resonate with smokers and encourage them to quit,” says Dominique Claveau, interim general director of the CQTS.
Tobacco, a major cause of serious illnesses
Despite efforts to reduce tobacco consumption, it remains a major public health problem. Around 12.5% of Quebecers continue to smoke. Smoking doubles the risk of heart attacks and strokes, and each year, 13,000 Quebecers lose their lives due to tobacco-related illnesses.
Quit smoking for yourself and your loved ones
The CQTS points out that quitting smoking is beneficial not only for the health of the smoker, but also for that of their loved ones. The organization encourages smokers to use the smoking cessation services available through the J’ARRÊTE program. This program offers confidential, free and effective help, with professionals available online, by telephone, or in person in specialized centers in Quebec.
Learn to recognize the signs of a stroke
-The CQTS is also partnering with the Heart + Stroke FAST campaign to teach the signs of a stroke, a medical emergency that can strike without warning. Knowing these signs — like a drooping face, inability to raise your arms, or slurred speech — can save lives. The message is clear: if in doubt, call 9-1-1 immediately.
About the CQTS
The CQTS, founded in 1976, is a key player in the fight against smoking and the promotion of public health in Quebec. The organization made history with its victory against Canadian tobacco companies in the tobacco class action. Today, the CQTS continues to fight against the leading cause of preventable mortality in Quebec and also fights against the consumption of cannabis and vaping products among young people.
Source: Quebec Council on Tobacco and Health / CNW
Publication Health Index: 2025-01-20
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