News Release Archive
HEALTH--EDUCATION SPECIALIST JOINS TOBACCO CONTROL TEAM ------------------------------------------------------------ The team at the Department of Health's Tobacco Control Unit now includes a health education specialist responsible for developing health promotion and education programs aimed at reducing tobacco use by all Nova Scotians. The programs, designed for smokers and non-smokers, will feature three key elements -- prevention, protection and cessation. One component will be the development of prevention strategies. Another component will be the development of health information on the risks associated with passive smoke. A third component will be developing strategies to help people quit smoking. "Certainly every effort to inform Nova Scotians of the risks associated with smoking is a good investment in the health of the people of this province," said Health Minister Dr. Ron Stewart. The new health education specialist complements the other members of the team at the Tobacco Control Unit. Team members include tobacco inspectors who ensure the provincial legislation prohibiting tobacco sales to youth is being followed. "Solid education and health promotion programs combined with legislation and regulations form a comprehensive approach to try to reduce tobacco use by youths and others in Nova Scotia," said Merv Ungurain, director of the Tobacco Control Unit. Tobacco use in Nova Scotia is a very serious public health problem. It is a leading cause of preventable death and disability. -30- Contact: Lori MacLean 902-424-5025 jlw Feb. 1, 1996 5:45 p.m.