Despite efforts to limit access to vapes for young people, many countries are seeing an increase in use among underage teens. This is particularly true since refillable “pod mods” and disposable devices have become more common. Vapes are attractive to young people due to their sleek designs and variety of flavors, but they also pose risks. Vapes containing nicotine can lead to addiction, and non-smoking teens who vape are more likely to start smoking cigarettes.
Some countries have established a minimum legal sales age to try and reduce underage use. For example, in New Zealand, vapes cannot be sold to anyone under 18. Australia has taken it a step further, requiring a prescription for nicotine-containing vapes. However, youth vaping continues to increase in countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. In fact, a recent health survey in New Zealand found that 20% of people between 15 and 17 had vaped in the past month.
A study was conducted to understand how underage teens are getting access to vapes. The research found that “social sourcing,” or sharing between friends, was the most common way. Underage vape users were also able to buy from commercial retailers, and some even steal vapes.
The study also included interviews with 30 New Zealand teens who vape. The findings revealed that all participants shared vapes with friends, family members, and work acquaintances. Some participants avoided owning their own device and only used others’ vapes, which they felt allowed them to control their use.
Most participants asked older friends or siblings to buy vapes for them. Some even paid a fee for this service. A few participants asked strangers they met on social media or outside retail shops to buy vapes for them. Nearly all participants knew of retailers who sold to underage people, and many had bought vaping products from these retailers.
The study suggests that stronger retailer monitoring and enforcement is needed to prevent underage sales. It also highlights the need for policies that reduce the availability and appeal of vaping products. Monitoring the impact of a ban on sales of disposable vapes, as planned by the government, could be one such measure.
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