- Over 80% of young people who start smoking do so by the age of 16.
- The average age of smoking initiation in BC is 12.7 years.
These two numbers point to the importance of starting early and targeting youth in the school-aged years. Researchers have identified that educational strategies in conjunction with community and media based activities are effective in reducing initiation.
Tobacco Reduction Coordinators working together with Public Health Nurses and school staff have the unique opportunity to influence youth to never use tobacco products. Northern Health’s Tobacco Reduction Program has FREE tobacco reduction resources available to schools. Resources include video’s, brochures, posters and lesson plans.