The final phase was to hire a staff person to implement the Strategic Plan. More people are killed by tobacco use than by accidents, murder, AIDS, and alcoholism combined. Every year in Canada 40,000 people die because of smoking. Long term smokers and heavy smokers have the highest health risks.
Smoking increases the risks of emphysema, bronchitis, asthma, and heart disease.
Diabetes and smoking are a dangerous combination. Tobacco use by teens and pre-teens in the Native communities in Simcoe County appears to be very prevalent, as suggested by the demographic statistics outlined in Sec. 2.2 and supported by our discussions throughout the public consultation process. Tobacco abuse is a serious health issue as young people are becoming addicted to cigarettes at an early age and are continuing to smoke throughout their adult life. This will have a significant impact on the future of the Native communities.