Recent data from the NSW Health’s 2024 Population Health Survey highlights a significant decline in cigarette smoking in New South Wales, with only 11 per cent of adults reporting smoking daily or occasionally, down from 14 per cent in 2015. However, the survey reveals a troubling trend: a notable increase in vaping, particularly among young people aged 16 to 24, with approximately one-fifth of this demographic now engaged in the practice, making it the most affected age group.
Despite the plateauing of vaping rates in recent years, experts express concern over the long-term consequences. Evidence suggests that teenagers who vape are five times more likely to transition to traditional smoking, raising the alarm about potential future health repercussions. NSW Health Minister Ryan Park asserts that this moment presents a critical opportunity for addressing this rising public health issue, cautioning that past successes in reducing smoking rates must not be jeopardised.
Professor Tracey O’Brien, the NSW Chief Cancer Officer, emphasises the severe health risks associated with both smoking and vaping. Smoking remains a leading cause of disease and premature death across the state, and while the decline in tobacco use is commendable, complacency regarding the dangers of vaping must be avoided. Chemicals inhaled from vapes are linked to serious health issues, including cancer, heart disease, and lung damage, with frequent use also adversely affecting brain development and exacerbating mental health issues like anxiety and depression among youth.
In response to these concerns, the Minns government has initiated educational campaigns and partnered with various authorities to limit the accessibility of vaping products, aiming to curb this trend. The introduction of the Pave app serves as a resource for individuals seeking to quit smoking or vaping by providing valuable tools and support. Additionally, recent data from Cancer Institute NSW indicates a substantial engagement with Quitline, revealing over 27,000 calls in the past year, with 5,000 related to vaping and 15,000 concerning smoking.
This situation underscores the necessity for ongoing vigilance and action against the dual challenges of smoking and vaping, particularly among the younger population. As NSW navigates this public health dilemma, the collaboration between government, health officials, and the community will be vital in fostering a healthier future.