The government of Saskatchewan has announced additional assistance to help people make good on their goal to quit smoking. Effective January 1, two smoking cessation prescription drugs will be covered under the provincial drug plan.
Champix (varenicline) and Zyban (bupropion) are products that can be prescribed by a physician to assist people in quitting smoking. People who smoke are encouraged to use these products in conjunction with additional smoking cessation counselling and supports available through a variety of sources in Saskatchewan.
"Our government has made a strong commitment to help our residents make healthier life style decisions by reducing tobacco use," Health Minister Don McMorris says. "This is another measure under our Tobacco Reduction Strategy which is focused on the principles of prevention, protection, and cessation."
"The Lung Association of Saskatchewan applauds this measure," Lung Association of Saskatchewan Vice-President of Health Education Jennifer Miller adds. "Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death in Canada and kills 720 people annually in Saskatchewan from lung diseases alone. Smoking is an addiction and the Lung Association is pleased that the government is assisting people to overcome their addiction to nicotine by making these products more accessible."
For more information on tobacco reduction in Saskatchewan, and supports and programs to help people quit smoking visit the Ministry of Health website at www.health.gov.sk.ca.
