Commercial tobacco differs from Ceremonial tobacco. Toronto Public Health recognizes the difference between commercial and traditional/sacred tobacco and respects the tremendous significance that traditional/sacred tobacco holds for some Indigenous communities.

Most people start to use tobacco as youth before they can understand the nature of addiction and the long-term health risks.

It is important to talk to youth about tobacco addiction and the harms of even casual tobacco use.

In 2023, about three per cent of students in grades 7 to 12 report smoking tobacco cigarettes (more than just a few puffs) during the past year. (Boak & Hamilton, 2024)

For information on the prevention and cessation of vaping in youth, visit Youth & Vaping.

Most youth begin to use tobacco before they’re able to understand the nature of addiction or the long-term health risks. Youth may also be encouraged to smoke because:

  • tobacco products are packaged and flavoured to look and smell like candy (e.g., chew, cigarillos)
  • tobacco products are advertised as being a “natural” or “safe” form of tobacco. Health Canada warns that e-cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products such as chew and snuff are not safe and may pose significant health risks
  • smoking is frequently seen in youth-rated movies and television shows

Open, honest and respectful communication is essential.

When talking with children and youth:

  • focus discussions around the dangers and immediate consequences of smoking.
  • equip them with the skills, motivation, and information they need to:
    • make their own decisions.
    • avoid being negatively influenced by their peers.
  • talk about the different tactics used by corporations. Explain how corporations often entice youth to buy tobacco products and/or engage in behaviours that might be harmful to their health.

Teachers play an important role in preventing youth from starting to use tobacco. Talking to youth about smoking and incorporating information about tobacco use into the curriculum can make a difference.

Toronto Public Health’s School Liaison Public Health Nurses (SLPHNS) are able to respond to school service requests on tobacco use and vaping.

Parents, guardians and caregivers can contact Toronto Public Health at publichealth@toronto.ca or 416-338-7600, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Service is available in multiple languages.

Reference

Boak, A., & Hamilton, H. A. (2024). Drug use among Ontario students, 1977–2023: Findings from the Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey (OSDUHS). Toronto, ON: Centre for Addiction and Mental Health.