May 31 - World No Tobacco Day
Friday, May 30, 2014
Posted by: Natalia Gromov
Dear Colleagues:
On 31 May, health professionals everywhere mark World No Tobacco Day,
advocating for policies to reduce tobacco consumption. In the past,
advocacy efforts have focused on public policies such as tobacco taxes which
encourage smokers to quit as well as discourage youth from starting. In
celebration of World No Tobacco Day 2014, NAQC would like to encourage
meaningful corporate policies and applaud a corporation that is leading by
example.
In February, CVS Caremark announced its decision to end the sale of tobacco
products in stores and pharmacies, showing that businesses can be part of the
solution for a healthier America. Selling cigarettes in pharmacies makes
tobacco more accessible to smokers and those trying to quit smoking. Seeing
tobacco products in pharmacies where people purchase medications to quit
smoking sends mixed signals to those trying to quit. Cigarettes have no place
in any public setting, especially settings where healthcare is delivered.
So much is at stake: smoking is the single most preventable cause of death in
our country. We urge retailers, especially those with pharmacies, to join CVS
Caremark in ending the sale of tobacco products. We hope NAQC members
will encourage retailers in their communities to follow CVS’ example. This is
an important action that can dramatically improve the lives of people
everywhere.
Best wishes to all of you on World No Tobacco Day!
Sincerely,
Linda
Bailey
President and CEO
Wayne Tormala
Board Chair
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