Hastings and Prince Edward Counties/Dec. 30, 2024
As we enter the new year, Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is encouraging everyone who uses alcohol, cannabis or tobacco to consider reducing their use. Hastings and Prince Edward Counties (HPEC) communities have higher rates of alcohol, cannabis and tobacco use than the average across the province. While the best way to avoid health risks related to these substances is to stop using them altogether, reducing the amount you drink, smoke, vape or consume can also have health benefits, including a decreased risk of cancer and heart problems, limiting organ damage, and reducing the risk or worsening of mental health conditions.
“As we enter a new year, consider that any reduction of your use of alcohol, cannabis, or tobacco can benefit your health,” says Dr. Ethan Toumishey, Medical Officer of Health and CEO for HPEPH. “Even trying to quit or cut back for just 30 days can have health benefits and improve your chances of cutting back or quitting long term.”
Any use of alcohol, cannabis and tobacco may result in risks to your health.
- Alcohol use can increase your blood pressure, damage your organs, and increase your risk of certain cancers.
- Smoking cannabis can lead to breathing problems. Cannabis is also linked to increased risk for, or worsening of, mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.
- Tobacco use can contribute to the risk of nearly all types of cancer. It also causes lung problems like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart problems.
Want to try cutting back? Have a plan to reduce your use. Try getting friends and family involved with your reduction efforts, and replace your consumption of alcohol, cannabis or tobacco with a healthier alternative like making mocktails, or doing something relaxing like taking a bubble bath or going for a walk. In 2025, reduce your use to reduce your risk!
For individuals specifically interested in quitting or reducing smoking/vaping, HPEPH also offers support to quit:
- Trained quit specialists and access to nicotine patches and gum through the CAMH STOP program. These are available to the public by calling HPEPH’s Tobacco Talk Line at 613-966-5500, ext. 600.
- School health clinics for local high school students. Contact your guidance office or school Public Health Nurse to learn more.
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Media contacts
Sara Hart, Communications Specialist
hart.sara@hpeph.ca
Maureen Hyland, Communications Specialist
hyland.maureen@hpeph.ca
About Hastings Prince Edward Public Health
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is a public health agency that serves the counties of Hastings and Prince Edward from four local offices. HPEPH is situated and provides services on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Huron-Wendat and Haudenosaunee people. We monitor the health of our local population, deliver programs and services within our communities, and help develop healthy public policies. We provide information and support in many areas to help improve the health and well-being of our residents. Together with our communities, we help people become as healthy as they can be. For more information, please visit hpePublicHealth.ca. You can also find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
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