A recent study by Cancer Council Australia shows a significant drop in vaping among school-age children following a government ban on disposable vapes, with notable shifts in youth attitudes towards vaping.
Study Reveals Decline in Vaping Rates Among Australian Youth Post-Ban
Study Reveals Decline in Vaping Rates Among Australian Youth Post-Ban
New research indicates that the implementation of a ban on disposable vapes has led to a decrease in vaping among children aged 14 to 17 in Australia.
Australian school-age children are reportedly vaping less following the government's ban on disposable vapes, according to a recent study. The research, titled Generation Vape, highlighted that vaping rates among teenagers aged 14 to 17 fell from 17.5% at the beginning of 2023 to 14.6% in April. Furthermore, data reveals that usage among individuals over 15 years old decreased by more than a third.
Health Minister Mark Butler remarked that the trend indicates a positive change, noting that authorities have confiscated more than 10 million illegal vapes since the ban took effect. "Our education and prevention campaigns, along with support to deter vaping and smoking, are driving results," he stated.
Implemented in July 2024, new regulations prohibit the manufacturing, importing, advertising, and supplying of single-use vapes in Australia. Nicotine vapes now require a prescription to be legally obtained from pharmacies, although a persistent black market for these products remains.
Comparable measures have been enacted in the UK, which similarly banned the sale of disposable vapes starting in June. Experts assert that while vapes may be less harmful than traditional cigarettes, they still pose health risks and their long-term effects remain uncertain.
The decision to address vaping stemmed from a clear concern among authorities regarding youth usage, which Minister Butler believes has led to a new wave of nicotine addiction. According to the latest survey, a substantial 85.4% of participants aged 14 to 17 reported never having vaped, while less than a third showed interest in trying it—a potential indicator of shifting perceptions about these products.
Research also uncovered a sense of shame surrounding vape usage among current or former users, signaling a cultural shift as well. Despite the reported decline, tobacconists and vape shops continue to be significant sources for vape sales, highlighting the challenges ahead.
Mr. Butler conveyed confidence that Australia has reached a turning point in the vaping crisis. "This is a difficult battle that requires ongoing efforts, not just against vaping but also illicit tobacco," he asserted. Tobacco remains a critical issue as Australia’s leading preventable cause of death, claiming over 24,000 lives each year.
