Tobacco and Vaping: Harm Minimisation Strategies

8-minute read. Take breaks as needed or .

Quick Summary

Tobacco use and vaping present different but significant health risks. This guide provides harm minimisation strategies for smokers and vapers alike. It also covers the legality of vaping in Australia.

For Both Smokers and Vapers

Understand your substance: be aware of the nicotine content and the presence of harmful chemicals in your tobacco or vaping products.
Mind your environment: use products in well-ventilated areas and avoid use in enclosed spaces to minimize second-hand exposure.
Mixing risks: be cautious about using tobacco or vapes with alcohol and other drugs, which can enhance harmful effects.
Manage your usage: track and limit your use and consider tools like apps to help reduce consumption.
Transition to safer alternatives: if possible, use nicotine replacements like gums, patches, or lozenges to manage cravings without the harmful effects of smoking or vaping.

Choose lower tar and nicotine products: opting for cigarettes with lower tar and nicotine can reduce intake but remember no level is safe.
Biodegradable filters: use environmentally friendly filters to reduce pollution.
Smoking etiquette: respect non-smokers by using designated smoking areas and avoiding smoking in public places.

Use regulated products: only buy e-liquids and devices from reputable sources to avoid harmful additives.
Adjust nicotine levels: gradually reduce nicotine concentration in e-liquids to lower dependence.
Device maintenance: regularly clean your device to prevent the buildup of harmful residues.
Avoid DIY mixes: mixing your own e-liquid can be dangerous due to the risk of incorrect concentrations.

Recent research highlights several risks associated with vaping:

Respiratory and cardiovascular risks: studies suggest a link between vaping and conditions like "popcorn lung," which affects the lungs' smallest airways, and potential cardiovascular issues due to the stress vaping places on the heart.
Chemical exposure: vape liquids contain toxins, heavy metals, and possibly radioactive substances. Flavorings, such as diacetyl, have been linked to serious lung conditions.
Nicotine misconceptions: vapes may deliver more nicotine than expected, potentially leading to heightened addiction. Flavorings in vapes, particularly those appealing to younger users, could damage the lungs.
Long-term health effects: the long-term health impacts of vaping are still largely unknown. Early evidence suggests potential for significant health issues.

Nicotine Pouches

Addiction potential: these products are addictive due to their nicotine content.
Health effects: the long-term health effects are not well understood and warrant caution.

Legality of Vapes in Australia

Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) rules: nicotine vaping products are considered prescription medicines in Australia. This means individuals need a prescription from a doctor to legally purchase and use nicotine e-cigarettes, e-liquids, and related products.
Sale and supply: the sale of nicotine e-cigarettes and liquids without a prescription is illegal throughout Australia. Non-nicotine vapes can be sold, but this is heavily regulated, and sales to minors are prohibited.
Use in public places: many Australian states have laws that treat vaping in public places similarly to smoking, with bans in places like restaurants, bars, and near schools to protect the public from second-hand exposure.
Advertising and flavor restrictions: there are strict controls on how vaping products can be marketed, especially regarding flavorings that might appeal to younger people. The promotion and advertising of vaping products are restricted to protect public health.