Dramatic drop in youth smoking rates

Dramatic drop in youth smoking rates

Results from the comprehensive Ministry of Health¹s 2006/07 New Zealand Health Survey show that youth smoking rates have dropped from 28.6 per cent in 1999 to 12.8 per cent in 2007.

On World Smokefree Day, 31 May 2008, we celebrate that young people smoke less than former generations.

New Zealand Aotearoa Adolescent Health and Development (NZAAHD) National Executive Officer Sarah Helm said: ³We have every reason to celebrate. Young people are illustrating their strength, leadership and commitment to good health by not giving into high-pressure marketing from tobacco companies.²

Tobacco companies have portrayed smoking as a cool and grown-up behaviour, and we are delighted that teenagers are showing that they are switching off from these messages, she said.

World Smokefree Day is part of Youth Week 2008 with youth events throughout the country.

People living in Christchurch, Canterbury will be invited to Wycola Park to enjoy performances by local schools and dance groups, info tents hosted by community groups on smoking and many more attractions. This Youth Week event will take place on Saturday 31st May 2008 at 11:00 am.

In Whangarei a Smokefree Hikoi will be held in Kensington Park on Thursday 29th May 2008 at 1:30 pm.

ENDS

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