The tobacco lobby claims vaping is displacing youth smoking – a close look at the evidence tells another story
March 21, 2025 by theconversation.com
The tobacco lobby claims vaping is displacing youth smoking – a close look at the evidence tells another story
E-cigarette companies like British American Tobacco lobbied to loosen vape regulations in NZ and Australia. They argue vaping is replacing smoking based on a 2020 study. However, a new study found vaping slowed the decline in youth smoking rates since 2010. The 2020 study didn't consider this and influenced policy decisions. Research suggests vaping may lead to smoking uptake in NZ adolescents, emphasizing the need for comprehensive policies addressing both vaping and smoking. Policymakers globally should be cautious of unintended consequences on youth when crafting regulations around vaping products for adults.
