According to a report by Mirage News on September 11th, the latest data from the Queensland Health Department in Australia indicates a significant increase in the proportion of students in Queensland attempting to use e-cigarettes.
According to reports, between 2022 and 2023, 35.6% of students aged 12 to 17 have tried e-cigarettes, more than twice the 15.5% reported in 2017. Additionally, in 2022, 45.3% of young people aged 18 to 29 have used e-cigarettes, compared to only 23.5% in 2018.
In order to combat and prevent the supply of illegal tobacco and e-cigarette products, the Queensland Department of Health is collaborating with the Queensland Police Service and federal agencies such as the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and Border Force to enforce relevant state and federal regulations. Last year, the Queensland Department of Health also launched the "There's Nothing Sweet About Vapes" campaign on social media platforms to emphasize the harmful chemicals and health impacts.
In addition, the Miles government will increase funding for the quit smoking hotline to $5.1 million Australian dollars per year, ensuring tailored support for nicotine addicts, including young people. The Queensland health and education departments have jointly launched the "Quit Pathways" program, aimed at developing and implementing an e-cigarette and tobacco cessation support plan for high school students (aged 12-18).
The Miles government is moving forward with new regulations that, if passed, will increase penalties for the commercial supply or possession of illegal nicotine products such as e-cigarettes and black market tobacco. Queensland Minister for Health, Mental Health, Ambulance Services and Women Shannon Fentiman stated:
New e-cigarette data has shocked many, prompting the Queensland government to take strong measures to protect its residents from the harmful effects of e-cigarettes and tobacco products. While the decreasing rate of tobacco smoking is a positive development, the extremely concerning use of e-cigarettes among young people in Queensland is alarming. It is clear that e-cigarettes are attracting young people with their attractive packaging and flavors such as blueberry and bubblegum.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. John Gerrard stated:
I am very concerned about the increasing use of e-cigarettes among young Queenslanders, as the evidence of potential health risks continues to grow. Data indicates that the situation is worsening. The various health risks associated with e-cigarettes are expanding, including lung damage, nicotine addiction and toxicity, as well as adverse effects on mental health. Of particular concern for adolescents is the potential for e-cigarettes to lead to tobacco use. Non-smokers who use e-cigarettes are three times more likely to start smoking.
If the new law is passed, it is expected to impose the strictest nationwide penalties on illegal retailers in order to address this significant public health issue.
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