Ontario Government to Fund Talk Therapy, Improve Integration in Mental Illness Treatment
TORONTO, March 3, 2020 /CNW/ - The Ontario Medical Association (OMA) welcomes today's announcement by the Ontario Government to improve quality, address gaps and increase services in treating mental illness and addictions.
One in 5 Canadians experiences a mental illness or addiction problem, in any given year. One in 2 have—or have had—a mental illness, by the time they reach 40.
"We applaud the launch of the Roadmap to Wellness: A Plan to Build Ontario's Mental Health and Addictions System. Doctors see patients every day who suffer from mental illness" said Dr. Sohail Gandhi, OMA President. "But too often people experiencing mental illness fall through the cracks. I applaud Minister Elliott and Associate Minister Tibollo for taking an integrated approach to make sure patients have greater access to quality care."
The OMA has developed a series of white papers on key health-care issues and will soon be releasing the first one on Physician Leadership in Mental Health and Addiction Care. The white paper will recommend the government establish and implement standards for equitable, connected, timely and high-quality mental health and addictions service delivery throughout the province, which the government has taken positive steps towards today.
"The OMA advocated for the government to expand and enhance mental health services in our pre-budget submission" said Gandhi. "We are pleased to see the government focus on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as a first step and look forward to learning more about it, and contributing to the development of this initiative."
Mental illnesses are often multi-faceted and complex, and patients may require treatment for extended periods of time or throughout their entire illness. CBT is often successful in treating a number of conditions including the most commonly diagnosed mental illnesses in Canada.
Untreated or undertreated mental illness increases other medical costs and is a barrier to patients regaining a meaningful personal life and returning to work. Today, many patients must wait to receive mental health services. Increased funding for this area is welcome.
About the OMA
The Ontario Medical Association represents Ontario's 43,000 plus physicians, medical students and retired physicians, advocating for and supporting doctors while strengthening the leadership role of doctors in caring for patients. Our vision is to be the trusted voice in transforming Ontario's health-care system.
SOURCE Ontario Medical Association
Ontario psychiatrists respond to Ontario's new plan for mental health and addictions
ONTARIO, March 3, 2020 /CNW/ - The Ontario Psychiatric Association (OPA) welcomes the new plan for mental health and addictions in Ontario. The strategy entitled "Roadmap to Wellness: a plan to build Ontario's mental health and addictions system" is a much needed first step towards a more comprehensive and connected mental health and addictions system capable of serving the needs of all Ontarians.
While today's announcement marks a step in the right direction, the OPA strongly agrees with the Minister of Health that there is still a lot more work to be done by government to construct a mental health and addictions system that addresses the existing gaps, and that is capable of meeting the unique needs of people with complex mental health and addictions challenges. Ontario's front-line psychiatrists continue to see first-hand how a lack of resources and services including a finite number of psychiatrists, and a growing demand for services is failing patients with complex mental illness.
Better integration, improved access and navigation, as well as innovations in digital health are all important for a comprehensive and connected system, but without deliberate and sustained investments in the sector, the needs of Ontario's most vulnerable will continue to be unmet.
We are optimistic that the newly created Centre of Excellence for Mental Health and Addictions will work closely with providers and mental health and addictions professionals, and with psychiatrists to tackle long wait lists and the access challenges that remain for youth and adults who have complex mental health challenges. Ontario psychiatrists have several solutions and look forward to being active participants in those discussions going forward.
Only by working together can we build an equitable system for Ontarians across the province.
ABOUT ONTARIO PSYCHIATRIC ASSOCIATION (OPA) The Ontario Psychiatric Association is the provincial voice of Ontario's Psychiatrists. The OPA serves to facilitate the exchange of scientific information, promote the optimal level of professional development and practice, advocate for the mentally ill and their families, represent members to governments, universities, and other medical associations, and promote the prevention of mental disorders in the province of Ontario. You can follow the OPA on Twitter @OntPsychAssoc or visit the website at https://www.eopa.ca/
SOURCE Ontario Psychiatric Association
New Arthritis Research Education Series launches with pilot video addressing Knee Osteoarthritis and Running
VANCOUVER, March 2, 2020 /CNW/ - Arthritis Research Canada's volunteer Patient Advisory Board proudly present the new Arthritis Research Education Series. By taking an in-depth look at specific research studies through the use of video and other tools, the Education Series shares important expert knowledge from leading arthritis scientists on the latest findings in arthritis research. The Series kicks off with the popular topic of Knee Osteoarthritis and Running.
Arthritis Research Canada research scientists work in partnership with our arthritis patient advisors to conduct practical arthritis research for everyday living. Our research is aimed at arthritis prevention, early diagnosis, better treatment, and improved quality of life. Our goal is to get research results into the hands of those who need it most, right now!
The Series pilot on Knee Osteoarthritis and Running includes an interactive Tweet Chat event to allow the exchange of questions and answers between the public and a panel of expert research scientists and patient advisors at Arthritis Research Canada. Everyone is invited to join the Tweet Chat on Wednesday, March 4, 2020 from 1:00-2:00 pm (PST). Be sure to use our special Tweet Chat hashtag, #ArthritisIsSerious.
Is it safe to run when you have knee osteoarthritis? Are knee braces and other knee support aids helpful? Does it help or inhibit the knee's ability to function in the future? Experts will answer these questions and more. Be a part of the conversation. More details at: https://www.arthritisresearch.ca/arthritis-research-education-series/. We look forward to your participation in our #ArthritisIsSeriousTweet Chat!
Dr. Linda Li BSc(PT), MSc, PhD, FCAHS - Senior Research Scientist of Clinical Epidemiology, Arthritis Research Canada
Dr. Jackie Whittaker BScPT, PhD - Research Scientist of Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, Arthritis Research Canada
About ARTHRITIS RESEARCH CANADA: Arthritis Research Canada is the largest clinical arthritis research institution in North America. Our mission is to transform the lives of people living with arthritis through research and engagement. Led by world-renowned rheumatologist, Dr. John Esdaile, Arthritis Research Canada's scientific team of over 100 are creating a future where people living with arthritis are empowered to triumph over pain and disability. With four centres across Canada in British Columbia, Alberta and Quebec (Laval and McGill Universities), Arthritis Research Canada is leading research aimed at arthritis prevention, early diagnosis, new and better treatment, and improved quality of life.
SOURCE Arthritis Research Canada
Cablivi® (caplacizumab) approved by Health Canada for adults living with acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (aTTP)
Cablivi® is the first treatment approved in Canada for aTTP, a life-threatening blood clotting disorder
It's estimated that up to 20% of patients die from TTP episodes, despite currently available treatments1,2
TORONTO, March 2, 2020 /CNW/ - Following a priority review, Health Canada has approved Cablivi® (caplacizumab) for the treatment of adults with acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (aTTP) in combination with plasma exchange and immunosuppressive therapy. aTTP is a rare blood disorder that causes clots to form in blood vessels throughout the body, which may lead to damage to critical organs and can cause fatal complications.3 Cablivi® is the first therapeutic specifically indicated for the treatment of aTTP in Canada.
"aTTP is a devastating disease that can lead to death if not treated effectively. While current treatment options have improved patient outcomes, mortality still occurs due to complications," says Dr. Katerina Pavenski, a haematologist and apheresis doctor at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto. "In clinical studies, caplacizumab led to quicker platelet recovery and disease remission, and had a significant impact on disease complications. With the approval of caplacizumab, we now have an additional therapeutic option to help improve outcomes in aTTP patients."
Cablivi® prevents microthrombi (blood clots) from forming in the body, allowing the patient to recover quicker, reducing some of the complications associated with aTTP, and lowering disease recurrences.4
"Sanofi Genzyme is committed to developing innovative products in areas of healthcare where we can make a significant difference to patients' lives," says Marissa Poole, General Manager, Sanofi Genzyme Canada. "The approval of Cablivi® offers a much needed, new approach to treating this serious and potentially life-threatening disorder."
A Critical Gap in Rare Blood Disorder Treatment
aTTP is a rare blood clotting disorder in which clots form in small blood vessels.5 Vessels can be blocked by these clots and have the potential to damage the brain, heart, kidneys or other organs.6 Patients may experience an array of symptoms from living with aTTP such as fatigue, fever, bleeding (i.e., from the nose or gums), diarrhea, chest pain, abdominal pain, neurologic symptoms (i.e., confusion, headaches, visual changes) or thrombocytopenia (bruising, purpura, petechiae).7
"Those living with aTTP face significant and potentially fatal hurdles including challenges with treatment," says Sydney Kodatsky, Chair, Answering TTP Foundation. "Early detection is critical to prevent irreversible damage to the organs and minimize the risk of death. Canadian patients with aTTP can now have access to this targeted drug and the hope it brings for a faster recovery from an aTTP crisis. Answering TTP Foundation is looking forward to working with provincial and territorial partners to ensure that this therapy is quickly made available at TTP treatment centers across the country and receives timely reimbursement by public and private plans."
About Cablivi®
The approval of Cablivi® by Health Canada is based on the results of the multi-centre, randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled Phase 3 clinical study known as HERCULES.
In the HERCULES study, treatment with caplacizumab in combination with plasma exchange and immunosuppression resulted in a statistically significant reduction in time to platelet count response versus plasma exchange and immunosuppression alone (p=0.01).8 Patients treated with Cablivi® demonstrated a 1.55 times higher likelihood to achieve platelet count response compared to patients treated with placebo.9
The most frequently reported adverse reactions (>15%) were epistaxis, headache and gingival bleeding. Seven patients (7%) in the CABLIVI group experienced an adverse reaction leading to study drug discontinuation. None of the adverse reactions leading to discontinuation were observed in more than 1% of patients.10
Cablivi® was developed by Ablynx, which was acquired by Sanofi in 2018. Cablivi® was approved in the European Union in August 2018 and in the United States in February 2019.11 Cablivi® is part of the company's rare blood disorders franchise within Sanofi Genzyme, the specialty care global business unit of Sanofi.12
About Sanofi
Sanofi is dedicated to supporting people through their health challenges. We are a global biopharmaceutical company focused on human health. We prevent illness with vaccines, provide innovative treatments to fight pain and ease suffering. We stand by the few who suffer from rare diseases and the millions with long-term chronic conditions.
With more than 100,000 people in 100 countries, Sanofi is transforming scientific innovation into healthcare solutions around the globe.
Sanofi entities in Canada employ approximately 2,000 people. In 2018, we invested more than $127 million in R&D in Canada, creating jobs, business and opportunity throughout the country.
Scully, M et al. Guidelines on the diagnosis and management of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and other thrombotic microangiopathies. Br J Haematol. 2012; 158(3): 323-35
2
Joly B, et al. Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. Blood. 2017; 129(21):2836-46
The W. Garfield Weston Foundation makes one-of-a-kind, $16.7-million philanthropic grant to revolutionize the treatment of brain disorders
TORONTO, March 2, 2020 /CNW/ - The W. Garfield Weston Foundation, through its Weston Brain Institute, has made a landmark $16.7-million philanthropic grant to establish the Weston Family Focused Ultrasound Initiative at Sunnybrook.
This initiative is set to revolutionize the treatment of brain disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, brain cancer and ALS.
With this grant, the Foundation is spearheading a $33-million initiative to develop and bring novel focused ultrasound technology to Canadians. The Weston Family Initiative will accelerate development of a powerful new focused ultrasound device to enable the personalized treatment of brain disorders as never before. This initiative will culminate in the launch of three world-first clinical trials and bring this breakthrough technology to more patients faster.
In what is believed to be the largest single philanthropic contribution to focused ultrasound in the world, this one-of-a-kind grant will also ensure a steady stream of resources for ongoing development of this game-changing technology and other related endeavors. That means if the device is commercialized, a portion of the income generated will be reinvested in Canadian focused ultrasound research and innovation.
The creative structure of this grant serves as a new template for philanthropic grant-making in Canada, one that may be scaled and modeled by other Canadian charitable foundations for the purposes of fueling discovery and potential reinvestment in homegrown innovation.
"We are delighted to make this contribution to improve the treatment of brain diseases," says Galen G. Weston, president of The W. Garfield Weston Foundation. "This initiative is a unique opportunity to accelerate the development of this breakthrough technology while encouraging leadership and innovation in the Canadian medical technology sector. The prospect of readying this device to benefit so many people in Canada and around the world is very exciting."
"We are deeply grateful to The W. Garfield Weston Foundation for their early support for Sunnybrook's pioneering work in focused ultrasound, and for taking this exciting next step," says Dr. Andy Smith, Sunnybrook's president & CEO. "On behalf of Sunnybrook, and so many Canadians who stand to benefit from better treatment for brain disorders, thank you for sharing our vision for a more hopeful future."
About the technology A team led by Sunnybrook's Dr. Kullervo Hynynen, physicist and vice president of research & innovation, is completing a prototype of a powerful new focused ultrasound device. This breakthrough technology is nothing short of revolutionary. From one-size-fits-all to made-to-measure, the new device offers an unprecedented level of precision.
This extraordinary device is being designed specifically to harness focused ultrasound to open the blood-brain barrier, the brain's tightly packed network of vessels that both protects it from toxins and prevents potentially helpful agents from entering − such as chemotherapy, antibodies, stem cells or gene therapy.
"The new device is based on a model of personalization and portability," explains Dr. Hynynen. "Each device will be custom-produced based on scans of individual patients. It's also frameless, making it more economical for clinical use since it does not require the real-time use of MRI. Finally, it is more comfortable for the patient. Not only is it completely non-invasive, but it can treat multiple locations in the brain at one time, making the procedure shorter."
About the Initiative With funds from the Weston Family Initiative, Sunnybrook's experts can conduct research and device development on an accelerated timeline and achieve key outcomes in considerably less time than would otherwise be possible.
The primary goal of this initiative is to complete a prototype of the new device and demonstrate its efficacy in Canadians with various brain diseases. The Initiative's ultimate ambition is to advance focused ultrasound technology so that treatments can be delivered quickly and without the need for MRI guidance, and to bring it to Canadian patients faster through clinical trials.
As part of the initiative, Sunnybrook's clinical team, led by neurosurgeon Dr. Nir Lipsman, will test the device across three brain disorders: Alzheimer's disease, breast cancer that has spread to the brain, and glioblastoma (the deadliest and most common brain tumour).
"This technology holds tremendous promise for patients with difficult-to-treat brain disorders like Alzheimer's disease, brain cancer and ALS, where the blood-brain barrier is a major obstacle," says Dr. Lipsman. "These are some of the most complex disorders that have no effective treatments, so we're excited to move closer to testing the device in clinical trials. The impact of this technology on patient care will be felt across Canada and around the world."
Sunnybrook Foundation will look to the generosity of the community to raise the remaining funds required to complete this bold new vision for the treatment of brain disorders.
About The W. Garfield Weston Foundation For three generations, The W. Garfield Weston Foundation has pursued its mission to enhance and enrich the lives of Canadians. With a focus on health and landscapes, the Foundation aims to catalyze inquiry and innovation to bring about long-term change. Now in its sixth decade, the Foundation continues to collaborate with a broad range of Canadian charities to further world-class research, explore new ideas, and create tangible benefits for the communities in which it works.
About Sunnybrook Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre is inventing the future of health care for the 1.3 million patients the hospital cares for each year through the dedication of its more than 10,000 staff and volunteers. An internationally recognized leader in research and education and a full affiliation with the University of Toronto distinguishes Sunnybrook as one of Canada's premier academic health sciences centres. Sunnybrook specializes in caring for high-risk pregnancies, critically-ill newborns and adults, offering specialized rehabilitation and treating and preventing cancer, cardiovascular disease, neurological and psychiatric disorders, orthopaedic and arthritic conditions and traumatic injuries. The Hospital also has a unique and national leading program for the care of Canada's war veterans.
Global poll shows people think fewer die from diseases but more die from other causes
On average, people underestimate deaths from heart disease by almost three times
Poll, February 25, 2020 — Benjamin Franklin once famously wrote “in this world nothing can be said to be certain – except death and taxes.” And while death is still certain, there seems to be a lot of confusion about how we die, according to latest Ipsos survey.
In a poll of 16,000 people across 32 countries, people on average tend to underestimate how many deaths are caused by diseases like heart disease, cancer and neurological disorders in their country, while they vastly overestimate how many people die from other causes like car crashes, violence, suicide, substance abuse and terrorism.
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide with almost one-third (32%) of people dying from this every year, according to the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME). But the average guess on deaths in all the countries surveyed was just 11%.
Cancer is the second biggest cause of death globally with a quarter of people (24%) dying from this each year – respondents thought the number of deaths is 15%.
About 9% of deaths occur from neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease or dementia, but people guessed it was about half that at 5%.
On the other end, people think 10% of deaths every year are from transport injuries, when the figure is just 2%. People thought 8% of deaths are from violence and substance abuse like drugs and alcohol, but the actual number is just 1% a year globally.
Experts say a combination of how the media reports on death, the dramatization of vivid scenes of death available to us, and the recency of such information – which may make it more salient or important – are influences affecting the way we think about dying.
Namika Sagara, President of Ipsos Behavioral Science Center in New York, said deaths from car crashes, gun violence and terrorism are usually very dramatic, and therefore people are likely to remember them more.
“These likely to come to mind more easily, and leads people to think it happens more often,” said Sagara. “This is related to availability bias.”
Sheldon Solomon, Professor of Psychology at Skidmore College in the U.S., backed this by adding that we tend to overestimate the frequency of events that are salient to us.
“We are more likely to die falling in our bathrooms than by being murdered by terrorists or in an airplane crash, but people probably never see news about someone falling in their bathrooms and dying,” said Prof. Solomon.
“Moreover, crashes, terrorism and violence are more immediate whereas high blood pressure and cancer happen more slowly over time such that we might underestimate their frequency as a result.”
More than a third of people surveyed said they see transport injuries such as accidents (38%), violence such as murder (37%), and terrorism and conflict (35%) most frequently in the news – the highest among all 14 causes of death. But the top three causes of death that the majority of people said they have been personally affected by are cancer (70%), heart disease (60%) and diabetes or kidney diseases (58%).
The entire story on the findings and what influences our view on causes of death can viewed here.
About the Study
These are the findings of the Ipsos MORI Perils of Perception Survey 2020. 16,000 interviews were conducted between 22 November and 6 December 2019.The survey is conducted in 32 countries around the world, via the Ipsos Online Panel system in Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, SAR China, Colombia, France, Germany, Great Britain, Hong Kong, SAR, China, Hungary, India, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, Peru, Poland, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Turkey and the USA.
For more information on this news release, please contact:
Ipsos is the world’s third largest market research company, present in 90 markets and employing more than 18,000 people.
Our passionately curious research professionals, analysts and scientists have built unique multi-specialist capabilities that provide true understanding and powerful insights into the actions, opinions and motivations of citizens, consumers, patients, customers or employees. We serve more than 5,000 clients across the world with 75 business solutions.
Founded in France in 1975, Ipsos is listed on the Euronext Paris since July 1st, 1999. The company is part of the SBF 120 and the Mid-60 index and is eligible for the Deferred Settlement Service (SRD).
Steelworkers Stand Up for Health Care, Endorse NDP in Nova Scotia By-elections
HALIFAX, Feb. 27, 2020 /CNW/ - The United Steelworkers (USW) union is proud to endorse NDP candidates Kendra Coombes and Kathleen Kevany in the March 10 by-elections.
"Our members and our union support strong public health care and strong public services. We know we can count on New Democrats to fight for health care. That's why I'm proud to endorse Kendra Coombes in Cape Breton Centre and Kathleen Kevany in Truro–Bible Hill–Millbrook–Salmon River," said Marty Warren, USW Atlantic Director.
"Kathleen Kevany has a track record of bringing people together and she will make fixing the doctor shortage a top priority," said Warren.
"Kendra Coombes is already working hard in Cape Breton at the municipal level. Let's leverage Kendra's experience so the people of Cape Breton Centre have a provincial representative they can count on," said Warren.
"Liberals make lots of promises, but it's New Democrats who deliver. In these by-elections, Nova Scotians can vote for strong NDP candidates who will join NDP Leader Gary Burrill in Halifax and bring health-care solutions, not divisive cuts," said Ken Neumann, USW National Director.
"Stephen McNeil's wrongheaded budget is a gift to corporations that will further jeopardize already strained public services. Kendra Coombes and Kathleen Kevany will stand up for health care, education and workers' rights," said Warren.
The USW represents 225,000 members working in all sectors across Canada including steel and aluminum, telecommunications, post-secondary education, mining, paper and forestry, office, technical and service workers in health care, credit unions, security, hotels and more.
SOURCE United Steelworkers (USW)
/R E P E A T -- Rare Disease Day initiative celebrates Canadians' differences, shines light on Canadians living with rare diseases/
Public invited to attend What Makes You Rare? event at Brookfield Place on February 28, 2020
TORONTO, Feb. 24, 2020 /CNW/ - Josie Dye's six-year-old son, Cole, lives with Sotos Syndrome, a rare disease characterized by overgrowth in childhood that is typically accompanied by learning challenges.
Since Cole's birth, Josie and her family have lived through many of the challenges common to families coping with a rare disease. Some of these challenges can include finding an accurate diagnosis, the availability of treatment and gaining access when therapies are approved, and securing the ongoing care needed to support health and quality of life.
As a radio host, broadcaster and mom, Josie is sharing her family's experience in the hopes of increasing awareness about rare diseases in Canada, as well as helping combat the feelings of isolation many patients and their families feel. It's an important message for the estimated one in 12 (or more than three million) Canadians who live with a rare disease, two-thirds of whom are children.i
"Families need to remember that you're not alone," says Josie. "Sometimes we feel like we're sinking, and that we're the only ones struggling, but there are so many out there who are living with a rare disease. Being able to connect with others, who either share your experience or are willing to offer support, is absolutely crucial to long-term wellbeing."
What Makes You Rare?
With the goal of bringing attention to this remarkable and resilient community, the Canadian Organization for Rare Disorders (CORD), in partnership with Sanofi Genzyme, is helping to highlight the stories of these patients and families to mark Rare Disease Day 2020.
"It is critically important to share the stories of those living with rare diseases in Canada," says Durhane Wong-Rieger, President & CEO, CORD. "When we listen to their experiences, we are more educated about, and more empathetic to, the challenges these individuals and their families encounter every day. In turn, we can each become champions of the rare disease community, helping to advocate for the services and support they need."
To encourage this national storytelling, CORD and its patient group partners Answering TTP Foundation, Canadian Association of Pompe, Canadian Fabry Association, Canadian MPS Society, and The National Gaucher Foundation of Canada, are posing the question "What makes you rare?". The question is meant to inspire Canadians to think about and articulate their own unique stories and share them as a sign of solidarity and support for the rare disease community. Canadians are encouraged to share their own answers via social media on the "What Makes You Rare?" Facebook event page.
Rare Disease Day 2020 Event:February 28, 2020, 8 AM to 6 PM, Brookfield Place (downtown Toronto)
In a further effort to help educate the general public about rare diseases and engage Canadians in a conversation about living with a rare disease in Canada, Josie, CORD, the partner patient associations and Sanofi Genzyme are hosting an interactive "What Makes You Rare?" event on February 28, 2020, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Brookfield Place in downtown Toronto.
At the event, visitors can engage with the different stories of Canadians in the rare disease community through original photography and videos.
"Rare Disease Day is a wonderful opportunity to become more educated about rare diseases and their impact," says Josie, "but it can't stop there. It's important to remember that we live with these rare diseases 365 days a year. For us, every day is Rare Disease Day."
About Canadian Organization for Rare Disorders (CORD)
CORD is Canada's national network for organizations representing all those with rare disorders. CORD provides a strong common voice to advocate for health policy and a healthcare system that works for those with rare disorders. CORD works with governments, researchers, clinicians and industry to promote research, diagnosis, treatment and services for all rare disorders in Canada. For more information, visit www.raredisorders.ca
Banning the Sale of Flavoured Vaping Products at Gas Stations and Convenience Stores Important Step in Addressing Youth Vaping
TORONTO, Feb. 28, 2020 /CNW/ - The Ontario Medical Association (OMA) strongly supports this move by the Ontario Government to address the issue of youth vaping by banning most flavoured vapour products and setting limits on nicotine levels in products sold in convenience stores and gas stations.
Our position has always been clear: vaping devices should not be used by non-smokers and especially not by young people.
The OMA wrote to Minister Elliott in September 2019 and recommended that the government:
Expand restrictions on the marketing and promotion of vaping products.
Expand restrictions of flavouring for vape juice, e-juice and e-liquid.
Develop awareness campaigns to educate the public, especially youth, about the harmful risks of vaping.
"I applaud today's announcement by Health Minister Christine Elliott that will ban most flavoured vaping products and limit the levels of nicotine contained in products sold in gas stations and convenience stores," said Dr. Sohail Gandhi, President, OMA. "This is an important continuation of the work the government has been engaged in to address the critical issue of youth vaping."
The government will also be making a number of other changes including increased smoking cessation support through telehealth, limiting promotion at specialty vaping stores to only be visible inside the store and putting in place an advisory committee on vaping to inform future vaping policies.
According to the 2019 Ontario Student Drug Use survey done by CAMH, between 2017 and 2019, past year electronic cigarette use by youth has doubled. An estimated 23% of students in grades 7-12 have tried a vaping product in the past year. Further, one-in-eight of students in this age group are using vaping products on a weekly or daily basis. Over half of these products contain nicotine.
There is a lack of awareness and understanding among youth about the addictive nature of nicotine and the potential negative health effects. There is evidence that youth who use vaping devices are more likely to smoke tobacco later in life.
The OMA has long advocated for robust smoking cessation programs. Vaping products have helped some people stop smoking, although the evidence on their effectiveness is inconclusive.
About the OMA
The Ontario Medical Association represents Ontario's 43,000 plus physicians, medical students and retired physicians, advocating for and supporting doctors while strengthening the leadership role of doctors in caring for patients. Our vision is to be the trusted voice in transforming Ontario's health-care system.
SOURCE Ontario Medical Association
Frontline Workers Put in the Backseat on Homecare Reforms
RICHMOND HILL, ON, Feb. 25, 2020 /CNW/ - Statement from SEIU Healthcare President Sharleen Stewart in response to the Ford Government's homecare overhaul:
"Frontline workers and their unions were given zero opportunity to provide input into the overhaul of Ontario's homecare system. The legislation appears to have been written behind closed doors with the operators who stand to profit from the reforms.
"Doug Ford's government is handing the keys to our healthcare system to the rich executives who can't properly run their own businesses. Today's announcement proves the Ford government is again putting frontline workers in the backseat to a privatization agenda.
"When the people who exploit nurses and personal support workers are leading the overhaul, taxpayers and families in need of care are right to be worried. And with everything in his government going so wrong, frontline workers do not have the confidence that Doug Ford's government will get this right.
"Without a commitment to raising the wages of low-paid healthcare workers, deliver safe working conditions through adequate training, and secure pensions, any attempt to address the recruitment and retention crisis will fail.
"SEIU Healthcare is calling on Minister Elliott to halt introduction of her legislation until frontline workers and their unions are confident that the needs of nurses and personal support workers, and the needs of the people they care for every day, are thoroughly addressed."
SEIU Healthcare is the largest union in the homecare sector and represents more than 60,000 frontline workers across the healthcare system. The union's members work in hospitals, homecare, nursing and retirement homes, and community services throughout the province. SEIU Healthcare has a strong track record of improving wages, benefits and working conditions for healthcare workers, supporting the training and development needs of its members, and strengthening standards in the management and delivery of patient and client care. www.seiuhealthcare.ca
SOURCE SEIU Healthcare
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