Australia has implemented some of the world's strictest anti-vaping laws, limiting the sale of vapes exclusively to pharmacies since the beginning of July, with consumers required to present a doctor's prescription to buy vaping products.
From July 1, nicotine vapes in Australia are regulated as therapeutic goods, which means they are only available at pharmacies to help people quit smoking or manage nicotine dependence.
Until Sept. 30, everyone needs a prescription from a doctor or nurse practitioner to purchase therapeutic vapes from a pharmacy.
The government's decision, aimed at curbing the increasing use of vapes among young people, has garnered wide support from the public and health experts.
"Government needs to do more, absolutely," said a local in Sydney.
"We are protecting lung health. The idea of anyone who is not as familiar with lung disease, lung pathology, lung structure, lung function, saying that you can vape safely for a period of time and no risk of harm will accrue is, well, it just says more about the person who makes that claim," said Matthew Peters, professor of respiratory medicine at Macquarie University.
Australia has successfully cut smoking rates through strict anti-tobacco measures, including plain packaging and steep taxes.
But researchers warn that the popularity of vapes, particularly single-use types, threatens that success.
"Disposables are highly addictive, sweet, and incredibly cheap so it cuts by about 90 percent the cost of buying your first vaping product," said Peters.
In January, Australia's government banned the importation of single-use or disposable vapes.
There are concerns about how well the anti-vaping laws are enforced and the potential growth of black market vape sales, but many like Peters remain optimistic.
"When the sort of creases in the supply system are ironed out, this will be infinitely superior to having a consumer model," said the professor.
Australia's Labor Party proposed stricter vaping bans to limit sales to people with a medical need, but the proposal was dropped after opposition from Greens lawmakers who said it would restrict access for people trying to quit smoking.
Australia toughens anti-vaping laws, restricting sales to pharmacies
