Utilization of vapes among teenagers has risen dramatically to 35.6%, according to the latest data from the Queensland Health Department in Australia, and the government plans to counter this trend with stricter laws and regulations and a stronger crackdown on the supply of illegal vape brands.
According to Mirage News September 11, the latest data from Australia’s Queensland Health Department shows a significant rise in the percentage of Queensland, Australia students trying out vapes.
According to the report, between 2022-2023, 35.6 of students aged 12-17. % 15.5.5 In 2017, I tried vapes. % Also, 45.3% of 18-29-year-olds in 2022 had used vapes, compared to 23.5% in 2018.
Queensland Health and the Queensland Police Service, and Commonwealth agencies such as the Therapeutic Goods Administration, to combat and prevent the supply of illicit cigarettes and vape brands, (TGA) work in partnership with the Border Force to enforce the relevant State and Commonwealth laws and regulations. Last year, Queensland Health also launched the “There’s Nothing Sweet About Vapes” campaign on social media platforms to highlight the harmful chemicals and health effects.
In addition, the Miles Government will subsidize $5.1 million a year for a quitline to ensure customized support for nicotine addicts, including young people. Queensland Health and Education Queensland have jointly launched the ‘Ways to Quit’ program, which aims to develop and implement vape and cigarette cessation support programs for secondary school students (aged 12-18 years).
The Miles government is still pushing for new legislation. If passed, they will increase penalties for the commercial supply or possession of illegal nicotine products such as vapes and black-market cigarettes. Shannon Fentiman, Queensland Minister for Health, Mental Health, Ambulance Services and Women’s Affairs, said:
- “The new vape figures are alarming, which is why the Myers Government has taken strong measures to protect Queenslanders from the harmful effects of vapes and cigarette products. While it is good to see a reduction in cigarette smoking rates, the rate of vape utilization among young Queenslanders is extremely concerning. Vapes attract young people because they pack pretty blueberries and bubble gum.”
John Gerrard, Chief Health Officer (Dr. John Gerrard) said:
- “I am very concerned that the use of vapes among young Queenslanders will continue to increase, as will the evidence of potential health harms. The data suggests that the situation is worsening. The various health risks of vapes are expanding, including lung damage, nicotine addiction, and toxicity, as well as negative impacts on mental health. For adolescents, it is crucial to be aware of the risk that vapes may lead to cigarette use. Non-smokers are three times more likely to smoke after using vapes.”
In response to this important public health issue, the new law, if passed, is expected to impose some of the harshest penalties in the country on offending retailers.
