Tobacco use continues to be the leading cause of preventable illness, disability and premature death in Canada. The death of 985 residents in Newfoundland and Labrador are attributed to smoking. The economic toll of tobacco use costs the NL economy about $135 million per year in direct health care costs (hospital care, physician care and prescription drugs) and about $53 million indirectly due to loss in productivity and premature mortality (Conference Board of Canada, 2017).
Labrador-Grenfell Health is committed to the wellbeing and protection of its residents. Tobacco education, reduction and cessation in our region is guided and supported by health professionals, community agencies and partners that are dedicated to the prevention and cessation of tobacco use in the Labrador-Grenfell Health region.
Tobacco partners in Newfoundland and Labrador have seen many achievements in recent years ranging from legislative changes of tobacco products and smoking in vehicles while children under the age of 16 are present. The implementation of smoke free policies in each of our health authorities and schools demonstrate our commitment to helping people quit smoking.
Partners in Promoting Smoke-Free Living
Living smoke-free means a healthier you and there are many partners working together to help you achieve your goal!
Newfoundland and Labrador Smokers’ Helpline
The Newfoundland and Labrador Smokers’ Helpline offers a variety of free services to help individuals quit smoking and stay smoke free. Support to quit can be accessed by phone (1-800-363-5864), through daily texts that provide motivation, weekly emails that share links and resources or by visiting their website.
Alliance for the Control of Tobacco
ACT was formed in 1999 and tasked with developing a Tobacco Reduction Strategy (TRS). This strategy guides tobacco control efforts for Labrador-Grenfell Health and partners across the Province.
Programming and Services
C.A.R.E Program
If you would like to quit smoking, ask your physician or local health professional about being referred to the Smokers’ Helpline. The service is free and confidential. We can help you on your journey to becoming smoke free!
You Can Stop by Starting with Us
This four week program for people who are thinking about quitting smoking, have quit and are trying to remain smoke free provides tips with educational support and materials. Follow up is also provided through the Smokers’ Helpline.
National Campaigns
World No Tobacco Day (May 31), National Non-Smoking Week and Weedless Wednesday, both in January are campaigns that help promote the quit smoking message. During this time, sessions in the community and schools and other activities are offered by health professionals to promote smoke free living. A number of prepared presentations, lesson plans and activities are available to school amd community educators upon request.
- Toxic Soup Program
- Youth and Tobacco Media Awareness
- Tobacco Advertising and Television
- Tobacco Control: Navigating Smoke Cessation and Reduction
Go Healthy with Ticker Tom
This is a fun, interactive program designed to get healthy living information to children and youth between the ages of six and 12.
For information regarding our programs, services and other health information on tobacco use or quitting please call 709-454-0346.
Topics of Interest
- Benefits of Quitting
- Tips to Help You Quit
- E-Cigarettes
- Marijuana
- Harmful Effects of Smoking
- Signs of Recovery
- What’s in a Cigarette?
- Quitting – It’s Time
- How Your Body Reacts to Tobacco Use
- Talk to Your Children about Smoking