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Vaping and smoking in adolescents 14 and under in Aotearoa New Zealand

Making Education Easy

From Māori Health Review Issue 116
Authors:
  • Zhou F et al.
Summary:

A cross-sectional study of electronic screening data found that vaping is more frequent than smoking among New Zealanders aged ≤14 years, and relatively few are vaping to stop smoking. Data were obtained for 3462 adolescents in this age bracket from YouthCHAT, which assesses lifestyle issues in young people in New Zealand primary care settings. Overall, 22% reported ever-vaping and 12% ever-smoking (p<0.001 for difference). Only 7% of those reporting ever-vaping were doing it for smoking cessation. Girls were more likely to vape (25%) and take up vaping having never smoked (13%) than boys (adjusted p values <0.01). Rates of ever-vaping and of vaping-never-smoked were higher in Māori and Pacific girls compared with New Zealand European girls (adjusted p values <0.01). Of those who vaped in the past 3 months, 22% wanted help.

Comment:
While vaping is often positioned as a cessation tool for smokers, this data shows increasing uptake among rangatahi with no prior tobacco use, particularly among Māori females. The finding that only a small proportion are using vapes for smoking cessation is a concern. Stronger regulation must be considered to restrict marketing and availability of vaping products to young people, particularly flavoured and easily accessible devices, while ensuring access for adult smokers genuinely seeking cessation support. Without equity-focused responses, there is a risk of vaping addiction becoming another inequity in Aotearoa.
Reference: J Prim Health Care. 2025;17(2):101 107.
Abstract
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Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.

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