The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health, today launched a marketing campaign to raise awareness of the harmful health effects that second-hand smoke has on children, and how to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke in homes and cars.
“Canadians know the serious health effects of second-hand smoke. More than ever we should all be diligent to reduce exposure in places that children eat, sleep and play,” said Minister Clement. “During this time of year when Canadian families spend so much time indoors, our public advertisements and GoSmokeFree! Web site will increase awareness on how to eliminate second-hand smoke in homes and in cars.”
Health Canada has produced a television advertisement that will air nationally from December to March. Radio advertisements on the impacts of smoking in the car will also be aired nationally starting in January and will run until February.
Children regularly exposed to second-hand smoke are at least 50 per cent more likely to suffer damage to their lungs and breathing problems such as asthma, and have an increased risk of developing emphysema as an adult.