News Release                            For Immediate Release

                                                                                                                     February 8, 2012

Health Professionals Can Help Smokers Butt Out for Good

Tobacco use continues to be the number one preventable cause of premature death, disease and disability. Of those 12 years and older in Grey Bruce, 17.9 percent continue to smoke; almost one in five people. Research shows that health professionals who speak to their clients about their tobacco use can have a significant impact and can influence smokers to consider quitting. 

On Friday, February 10, a free Smoking Cessation Champion Workshop will provide nurses and other health care professionals with evidence-based strategies and tools to help smokers butt out. On Saturday, February 11, a similar workshop will be held for students. These workshops, held at the Best Western Inn on the Bay, 1800 2nd Ave. East, Owen Sound, are part of a Provincial Smoking Cessation Initiative by the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario in partnership with the Grey Bruce Health Unit.

Health professionals are in a unique position to use effective quit smoking strategies with their clients. Even a brief conversation by a caring health professional, at a key time, can help someone think about quitting. Health professionals can provide the support and help that can make a difference!  

For further information, call Public Health at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456.

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For more information:

Beth Karrow

Public Health Nurse

Grey Bruce Health Unit

519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext. 2231

b.karrow@publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.