Quebec Vaping Rates Surge, as Smoking Stays Stable

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Quebec's Move to Ban Flavoured Vape Products

Disposable Vapes Dominate Market, Surging from 4% to 46% of Vaper Preference Since 2020

Vaping prevalence in Quebec has significantly increased since 2020, with a notable surge among young adults and a dramatic shift towards disposable devices, according to a new report from the National Institute of Public Health of Quebec (INSPQ). The findings are based on the 2023 Quebec Survey on Tobacco and Vaping Products, which aims to document the evolution of nicotine consumption following the COVID-19 pandemic and new legislative measures.

The survey reveals that the prevalence of vaping in the past 30 days among Quebecers aged 15 and over rose from 4% in 2020 to 7% in 2023. This increase was most pronounced among 20 to 24-year-olds, where the rate nearly doubled from 13% to 23%. This rise is accompanied by an increase in the proportion of vapers under 25 using their e-cigarette more than 25 times per day, suggesting the development of nicotine addiction among many young users, especially since over 90% of vapers aged 15-24 reported using nicotine-containing liquid.

vaping usage by age group

A major trend identified is the explosion in popularity of disposable vaping devices. While only 4% of vapers preferred this type of device in 2020, that figure skyrocketed to 46% in 2023. Conversely, the use of devices with pre-filled disposable cartridges or refillable tanks has decreased considerably.

Disposable Device Preference

In contrast, traditional cigarette use remained relatively stable, with 11% of respondents reporting smoking in the past 30 days in 2023, a slight, non-statistically significant decrease from 12% in 2020. This means approximately 776,000 Quebecers remain at risk from tobacco-related health problems. The survey also found that one-third (33%) of Quebecers who have tried to quit or have quit smoking for less than two years reported using an e-cigarette as a cessation aid. These findings highlight the urgent need for continued vaping prevention efforts among youth while promoting smoking and vaping cessation for all users.

Matthew Ma
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