Vaping Legislation in Tasmania
Statement by ADA Tasmania President Dr Katelyn McCracken
The Australian Dental Association Tasmania Branch commends the Tasmanian Government on its plans to introduce legislation continuing the requirement for all adults to have a doctor's prescription to purchase vaping devices, and banning the purchase of these devices for all minors under 18.
Harmful substances have been found in e-cigarette liquids and the vapours produced, which could increase the risk of lung disease, heart disease and cancer. Initial research also suggests that vaping has adverse effects on the mouth, including fungal infections, dental caries, periodontal disease and oral injuries.
Furthermore, there is not sufficient evidence that e-cigarettes are an effective smoking cessation tool. In fact, people who take up the use of e-cigarettes are around three times more likely to take up smoking, and former smokers who use e-cigarettes are more likely to relapse.
The passing of this legislation by the Tasmanian Government will restrict the availability of vaping devices and ensure that use of these devices is guided by medical professionals, which gives them suitable opportunity to provide advice regarding smoking and vaping cessation.
The legislation will also reduce access to these devices for minors, reducing the chance of creating a new generation of people with nicotine addiction as well as reducing the future burden of the currently unknown long-term health impacts of vaping.
We are encouraged that Guy Barnett and the Tasmanian Government is listening to the advice of health professionals including dentists, to protect the public from the harms of e-cigarettes, and we call on all political parties to support this necessary reform.
