Research indicates that school-age children in Australia are vaping less following the introduction of a government ban on disposable vapes. According to the most recent findings from Cancer Council Australia’s “Generation Vape” study, the vaping rate among 14 to 17-year-olds has decreased from 17.5% at the beginning of 2023 to 14.6% as of April this year. Additionally, an overall decline of more than one-third has been noted for individuals aged over 15.
Australian Health Minister Mark Butler remarked that vaping rates for young Australians appear to have “turned the corner,” highlighting the successful seizure of over 10 million illegal vapes in the past year as part of broader efforts to combat this issue. “Our education and prevention campaigns, along with measures to deter vaping and smoking, are making a difference,” Mr. Butler stated in a public statement.
In July 2024, new regulations were enacted to prohibit the manufacture, importation, advertising, and distribution of single-use vapes within Australia. Vapes containing nicotine can now only be legally purchased at pharmacies with a valid prescription. Despite these efforts, a black market for nicotine vapes persists, reflecting ongoing challenges in enforcement and regulation.
Similar regulatory actions have been observed in the UK, which instituted a ban on the sale of disposable vapes in June this year, echoing global concerns about the increase in vaping among youth. The latest survey results demonstrate that 85.4% of young people within the surveyed age group had never vaped, with less than a third indicating a curiosity toward these products.
Changing attitudes among school-age children towards vaping were noted, with many expressing feelings of shame or embarrassment about their vape usage. While there has been an observed decrease in teenagers acquiring their vapes independently, traditional outlets like tobacconists and vape shops continue to be significant sources despite stricter regulations.
Reflecting on these developments, Mr. Butler expressed confidence that Australia is past the peak of vaping and emphasized the importance of ongoing efforts to combat both vaping and illicit tobacco distribution. Tobacco use remains a serious public health issue in Australia, with over 24,000 deaths annually attributed to preventable smoking-related illnesses.
The continued decline in vaping rates among young Australians augurs well for public health initiatives, suggesting that focused education and regulatory measures can lead to meaningful changes in youth smoking behaviors. With further vigilance and support, there is a hopeful prospect for healthier generations in the future.
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