MINISTER OF HEALTH CONGRATULATES TOBACCO-FREE GRADUATES

On the eve of World No Tobacco Day, the Minister of Health is congratulating more than one hundred Saskatchewan students who made the commitment to graduate tobacco-free in 2008.

"By making the pledge to graduate tobacco-free, these young men and women have made a commitment to their health and the health of their friends and family now and in the years to come," Health Minister Don McMorris said. "We must continue an open and honest dialogue with our province's youth about the risks of tobacco use to ensure a healthier, smoke-free future."

Studies show that young people who choose to be tobacco-free are more likely to become tobacco-free adults. Tobacco-free youth is the theme of World No Tobacco Day, May 31, 2008.

One hundred and seventeen high school students representing eleven high schools participated in the 2007-2008 Graduate Tobacco-Free Initiative.

Each participating student will receive a signed certificate of achievement from Minister McMorris as well a Saskatchewan Health slingbag. The high schools will also receive a letter of congratulations and certificate of participation.

The Government of Saskatchewan is committed to reducing tobacco use. The campaign to reduce tobacco use in the province includes smoke-free public places, banning the display of tobacco products and promotion in retail establishments, as well as View and Vote and the tobacco-free grad initiative targeting young people.

Further information is available at www.health.gov.sk.ca/smoking-and-your-health.

Invitations for the 2008-2009 graduating class to go tobacco-free will be sent to Saskatchewan schools this fall.

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For more information, contact:

Joan Petrie
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: jpetrie@health.gov.sk.ca