Young experimenting with vaping in Canada

The number of young people in Canada who have tried vaping is higher than the number of young smokers, according to a story by Amy Thatcher for CMAJ citing recently released government statistics.

Canadian Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs Survey figures show that among those 15-19 years of age, 20 percent have tried vaping while 11 percent smoke.

Only nine percent of Canadians aged 15 and older have tried an electronic cigarette, which seems to imply what everybody knows – young people are more adventurous than older people are.

“We’ve never had a snapshot like this,” said Margaret Bernhardt-Lowdon, executive director of the Manitoba Lung Association.

She called the rates of youth experimentation with electronic cigarettes “concerning”, and would like to see a ban on sales of these products to minors.

Electronic cigarettes are not regulated as are tobacco products, and therefore don’t have restrictions related to age, use in public spaces or advertising.

On the other hand, it is not legal to sell electronic cigarettes containing nicotine in Canada, though these types of product are available.