A recent study suggests that vaping among school-age children in Australia is on the decline, coinciding with the government's crackdown on disposable vapes. The research, part of Cancer Council Australia's "Generation Vape" initiative, reports that vaping rates for teens aged 14 to 17 fell from 17.5% at the beginning of 2023 to 14.6% by April. Additionally, the data shows a reduction of over one-third in individuals over 15.
Health Minister Mark Butler praised this progress, stating that the combination of education and prevention campaigns is making a difference in combating youth vaping. Since the implementation of laws in July 2024 that prohibit the production, advertisement, and supply of single-use vapes, authorities have confiscated over 10 million illegal vape products. Despite this, a black market continues to flourish.
Like Australia, the UK also banned the sale of disposable vapes earlier this year. Although vapes are generally perceived as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, health experts caution that they’re not without risks, and long-term effects remain uncertain.
The Generation Vape survey also revealed that a staggering 85.4% of participants aged 14 to 17 had never vaped, and those showing interest in the product has dropped to under a third. Changing attitudes towards vaping among young individuals were observed, as many current or former users expressed feelings of embarrassment regarding their vaping habits.
Despite a drop in teens reporting the ability to buy their vapes, vape shops and tobacconists continue to be significant sources of sales. Butler expressed optimism, believing Australia has passed the peak of vaping but acknowledged ongoing challenges regarding vaping and illicit tobacco use, as smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death in the country.
