More Action to Reduce Tobacco Use

The province is taking another step to curb tobacco use in Nova Scotia by implementing a tobacco tax increase.

"Reducing tobacco use continues to be a priority for this government as we fulfill our commitment to improve the health of Nova Scotians," said Health Promotion Minister Rodney MacDonald. "Increasing the price of tobacco is one step in the battle to keep young people from starting to smoke."

Effective 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, March 17, tobacco taxes will increase by $5 for a carton of cigarettes, or about 62 cents per package. Tobacco sticks will also rise by $5 per carton and 200 grams of fine cut tobacco will increase by $4.52.

"Research shows that higher cigarette prices are a major factor in preventing teens from taking up smoking and they also have a direct impact on a person's decision to quit smoking," said Nancy Hoddinott, tobacco strategy manager. "It's a combination of elements such as taxation, legislation, support groups and social marketing that help people be successful in quitting."

Smoking rates are on the decline in Nova Scotia. The latest statistics from Health Canada's Canadian Tobacco Use Monitoring Survey shows that the province's overall smoking rate has dropped by five per cent, from 30 per cent in 2000 to 25 per cent in 2002. The 2002 Nova Scotia Student Drug Use Survey shows that teen smoking is now at 23 per cent, down from 36 per cent in 1998.

"As we continue to invest in our tobacco strategy and the people of Nova Scotia, we expect to see those rates come down even further, resulting in a healthier, stronger Nova Scotia," said the minister.

Nova Scotia's Tobacco Control Strategy, introduced in October 2001, is a seven-part plan that focuses on legislation and policy, tobacco pricing and taxation, treatment and cessation, monitoring and evaluation, community initiatives, school-based programs and public awareness.