HSE Launches Campaign as One in Three Students Have Tried Vaping

The Health Service Executive has today launched a new information campaign warning parents about the growing risks of vaping amongst young people, as research reveals one in three secondary school students have experimented with e-cigarettes.

The 'Take a deep breath' campaign, now live on radio and digital platforms, comes as parents and teachers report feeling overwhelmed by the rapid increase in vaping amongst children. Recent research by Ipsos B&A for the HSE, conducted in September, shows that experimentation often begins as soon as students enter secondary school.

The European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs found that one in six students are now current vape users, whilst one in thirteen have tried nicotine pouches. The extensive availability and marketing of disposable vapes and synthetic nicotine salts, combined with appealing flavours and colours, has made vaping appear like a normal part of growing up.

Parents interviewed for the research reported feeling uncertain about available products, health consequences, and what their children may be experimenting with. Teachers said they faced challenges in influencing young people who often believe vaping is a healthier alternative to smoking, despite these products posing new health risks.

Martina Blake, HSE National Lead for Tobacco Free Ireland, said:

"We know that parents are unsure how to navigate this new parenting challenge. Both parents and young people are often unaware of the risks and consequences of nicotine addiction and other harms from vaping. We are concerned about these new ways of getting a whole new generation addicted to nicotine and what it means for their future health."

She added:

"The new e-liquid tax, and our new campaign for parents to educate on the harms of vaping and encourage that conversation, is an important step in protecting young people from nicotine addiction. Price measures are proven to reduce experimentation and support healthier futures."

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor, Minister of State with special responsibility for Public Health, Well Being and the National Drugs Strategy, said:

"The Government is committed to protecting the health and wellbeing of our young people. I welcome the HSE's information campaign which responds to the concerns of parents and educators about youth vaping."

The HSE sent a letter to every school in Ireland on 14 October warning about the dangers of vapes and other nicotine delivery systems, providing guidance for parents and teachers on prevention.

A new e-liquid tax of €0.50 per millilitre now applies to all vaping liquids, including both nicotine and non-nicotine products. The average cost of a disposable vape delivering approximately 600 puffs is expected to increase from €8 to over €9. Public health experts expect the tax to reduce the appeal and affordability of vaping, particularly amongst children and teenagers.

Trusted, evidence-based information about vaping and nicotine products is available at hse.ie/vaping, with additional resources for parents, teachers, and health professionals at HSE.ie/e-cigarette-resources.