The preliminary results from a study in South Australia are published in Tobacco Control .
E-cigarette use increased rapidly from 2021 to 2023 in Australia. In 2024, use decreased. This is linked to stricter legislation.
Young non-smokers
However, the results of the study are preliminary and the situation needs to be monitored. The decrease in e-cigarette use is particularly noticeable among young people who have not smoked traditional cigarettes before.
E-cigarettes are sold in pharmacies
Australia has introduced laws that allow e-cigarettes to only be sold through pharmacies and has also limited the number of flavors (mainly tobacco, menthol and mint).
The study also found that half of those who vaped had tried to quit. Most were unaware of any support services to help them do so. Another finding in the study is that vaping is more common among men and among people with mental health conditions.
