Should Canada consider a smoke-free generation?

Should Canada consider a smoke-free generation?

From The Big Story by Frequency Podcast Network

April 24, 2026 · 26 min · Episode 1809

About this episode

The episode discusses the feasibility of a smoke-free generation in Canada inspired by the British government's proposed cigarette ban for those born after 2008.

The British government is set to ban the sale of cigarettes to anyone born after 2008 - raising both hopes that it could create the first smoke-free generation, but also doubts about whether it could actually be enforced. The legislation also puts limits on the sale and consumption of vape products. Host Maria Kestane speaks with Michael Chaiton, a Senior Scientist at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and an Associate Professor at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health at the University of Toronto, about whether or not the idea is feasible, and if it might be worth considering in Canada.

People in this episode

Host: Maria Kestane

Guest: Michael Chaiton

Topics covered

  • smoke-free generation
  • cigarette ban
  • vape products
  • public health
  • legislation
  • Canada

Keywords

  • smoke-free generation
  • cigarette ban
  • vape products
  • public health
  • Canada
  • legislation

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Dalla Lana School of Public Health

Places: Canada, British government

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