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Smoking in Australia

In 2017-18, just under one in seven (13.8%) or 2.6 million adults were daily smokers, whilst a further 1.4% of people also reported smoking on a less than daily basis. Since 1995, the proportion of adults who are daily smokers has decreased from 23.8% to 13.8% in 2017-18. Over recent years however, the daily smoking rate has remained fairly constant (14.5% in 2014-15). Despite this, the proportion of adults who have never smoked has increased from 49.4% in 2007-08 to 52.6% in 2014-15 and 55.7% in 2017-18. In 2017-18, young adults aged 18-24 years were more likely to have never smoked than any other age group, with 69.6% of men and 81.5% of women in this age group reporting that they had never smoked. These proportions have increased from 64.0% and 64.9% respectively since 2007-08. The national Health Survey was conducted in all states and territories and across urban, rural and remote areas of Australia in 2017/18. The survey included around 21,000 people in over 16,000 private dwellings. Previous surveys have been conducted since 1989/90.

Read articles from Australia

September 16, 2024 by astorlegal.com.au

New Vaping Laws Australia

New vaping laws coming into effect on October aim to regulate the supply and manufacture of vapes. Disposable vapes, including those with nicotine, will be banned in Australia from January 2024. Importing all vaping products will require a license, with strict penalties for offenses. Vaping is not illegal but restricted in smoke-free areas. The enforcement of these laws has faced criticism, with limited successful prosecutions for illegal vape sales in NSW. Non-pharmacy retailers will be prohibited from selling vapes under the new legislation. Therapeutic vapes will be available in pharmacies without a prescription from July 2024. Penalties for importing vapes illegally can reach up to $275,000.

September 13, 2024 by colinmendelsohn.com.au

Another day, another alarmist and misleading gateway study

Australian researchers released a study claiming a link between vaping and smoking initiation in young people. However, the study's findings lack evidence of causation and ignore important risk factors. Contrary to the study's claims, youth smoking rates have decreased with the rise of vaping. Other studies with more comprehensive risk factor analysis have shown no direct link between vaping and smoking. The study's definition of "smokers" is misleading, as most youth who try smoking do not develop a regular habit. The study's alarmist conclusions may lead to harmful vaping regulations. Evidence-based policies are crucial to address youth smoking accurately.

September 06, 2024 by chillifm.com.au

Senator calls for different approach to vaping laws

Tasmanian Senator Tammy Tyrrell expresses worry over Tasmania's strict vaping laws, labeling the state as a 'nanny state.' The laws require individuals to be 18 years old and possess a prescription to buy nicotine vapes from places like pharmacies, exceeding federal regulations. Tyrrell supports restrictions for minors but cautions that overly limiting access for adults may lead to a black market. She advocates for adults to have autonomy in decision-making similar to alcohol consumption, believing in the value of personal choices and learning experiences in life.

September 04, 2024 by people.com

Vaping Is Linked to Teen Mental Health Issues: Study

A study by Australia's Matilda Centre found a link between vaping and teen mental health, with 20% showing signs of depression. Over 5,000 students aged 12-14 were surveyed in New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia. Those with higher stress levels were more likely to vape, but a causal link wasn't proven. The study suggests a need to address mental health and vaping together. Experts stress the importance of intervention during this critical developmental stage. Further research is needed, as e-cigarettes containing nicotine can harm young brains. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between vaping and mental health in teenagers.

September 04, 2024 by people.com

Vaping Is Linked to Teen Mental Health Issues: Study

A study by Australia's Matilda Centre found a link between vaping and teen mental health, with 20% showing signs of depression. Over 5,000 students aged 12-14 were surveyed in New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia. Those with higher stress levels were more likely to vape, but a causal link wasn't proven. The study suggests a need to address mental health and vaping together. Experts stress the importance of intervention during this critical developmental stage. Further research is needed, as e-cigarettes containing nicotine can harm young brains. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between vaping and mental health in teenagers.

September 04, 2024 by archive.md

More action needed on black market vape, tobacco firestorm

Australian authorities face challenges as criminals boast about smuggling tobacco and e-cigarettes into the country. Issues with border control are highlighted by posts on social media boasting about evading customs. The black market trade poses a threat, with concerns of gang violence. Despite interceptions, a ship with illegal tobacco was released. Politicians call for stronger enforcement against illicit importers. Coalition MPs criticize insufficient government action. Authorities report seizing over 2.9 million vaping products this year. Health Minister addresses Facebook to enforce laws against vape advertising. Concerns rise as illegal goods continue to enter Australia, prompting the government to prioritize law enforcement efforts.

September 03, 2024 by dailymail.co.uk

Research reveals everyday habit may double the risk of depression

Vaping is linked to depression, especially among teens. Australian researchers found that students with severe depression were twice as likely to try e-cigarettes. While the direct cause is unknown, there's a strong association between vaping and mental health issues. Studies show that stress, anxiety, and poor well-being are linked to e-cigarette use. Prevention and intervention efforts are crucial to support young people's health. Research highlights the risks and prevalence of vaping among teens and adults, emphasizing the need for mental health consideration in addressing vaping habits. Actions are being taken to reduce e-cigarette use among students.

September 02, 2024 by colinmendelsohn.com.au

Should you vape 6-methylnicotine?

6-methylnicotine, a nicotine alternative, is used in vapes to bypass Australian restrictions. It is more potent but its safety is uncertain, with potential cytotoxic effects. Recent research found labeling inconsistencies, raising safety concerns. With new laws banning all vapes' importation, including those with 6MT, it is safer to use nicotine vapes from reliable sources.

August 29, 2024 by citynews.com.au

Countdown to Failure of Pharmacy Vape Scheme

Australia’s failed prescription policy for vaping nicotine was finally scrapped by a federal Senate vote on June 25. It has been replaced by an utterly unworkable pharmacy supply scheme that begins operating on October 1. Recently, Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) in the UK released figures showing that of the 5.6 million vapers in the UK, 53 per cent said they had managed to quit smoking entirely thanks to vapes. Cigarette smoking used to be more common in the UK than in Australia before (...)

August 22, 2024 by vejpkollen.se

White Snus Is Trending in Australia - Despite Being Illegal

Snus, or rather the Swedish-style nicotine pouch, along with all other smokeless tobacco products, has been banned in Australia since 1991. It is strictly forbidden to sell the products in the country, and snus can only be legally imported for personal use if the user has a special medical certificate.

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