Substance Use

The use of tobacco products falls under the Smoke Free Ontario Act, 2017.

As a substance, tobacco is a product that comes from the tobacco plant. There are more than 70 species of tobacco plants, most commercial use is from N. tabacum.

There are numerous health effects which can be experienced by tobacco users. Whether products are smoked, vaped, or chewed, the use of tobacco products can result in short and long term health effects.

There are many reasons youth may start using tobacco products (and other substances).

Recently the prevalence of students using tobacco products has been declining. Unfortunately, the introduction of e-cigarettes has seen a rise in use of these products.

Tobacco is legal for anyone over the age of 19 in Ontario. Those under 19 years of age are not able to buy tobacco products legally. It is illegal to supply or sell tobacco products to anyone under age.

Secondhand smoke is the smoke that is exhaled by the person who is smoking as well as the smoke that comes off the cigarette, cigar, or pipe itself.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with substance use, find the right help for you below.