What are vapes?
Vapes are battery operated devices that heat a liquid (called ‘e-liquid’) to produce an aerosol that users inhale. They are designed to deliver nicotine directly to the lungs.
Vapes can vary in terms of ingredients and designs. They can look like everyday items such as pens, USB memory sticks, and larger cylindrical or rectangular devices.
In Australia, vapes can only be legally supplied through pharmacies. There are strict regulations that limit nicotine concentration and restrict flavours to tobacco, mint, and menthol.
Are vapes safe?
While the long-term effects of vaping are not fully understood, emerging evidence points to several health risks. Vaping is likely to increase the risk of lung and oral cancers. It has also been shown to cause elevated blood pressure, increased heart rate, and arterial stiffness – all of which may contribute to a higher likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease.
Vapes also pose the risk of accidental poisoning (including deaths). Young children are particularly vulnerable to nicotine poisoning through uncapped vials, sucking on the mouthpiece, inhaling or drinking the e-liquid, eating the cartridge or having liquid splashed in the eye. Just one millilitre can be fatal if ingested by a child.
Additional concerns regarding illicit vapes
Vapes sold illegally online or in unregulated retail settings pose other risks. These products often bypass safety and quality controls and are not sold in a regulated environment – leading to several serious concerns including:
- High nicotine amount – Even if they state they are nicotine free- in severe cases this can cause seizures, vomiting or fainting.
- Targeting of younger people – Illicit vapes are often marketed in ways that appeal to adolescents.
- Battery hazards – Faulty or poorly manufactured devices can overheat, explode, or cause fires and burn injuries.
- Increased risk of future smoking for young people – Young people are much more likely to take up smoking in future, with young people being most susceptible. 12-year-olds who vape are 29 times more likely to smoke in the future.
Do vapes help people quit smoking?
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has not approved any vape product as a tool to help with quitting smoking.
There are other TGA approved products such as medication, patches, gum, lozenges, mouth spray and inhalators that can be used as quitting aids. These products are proven to be safe to use and are shown to increase chances of quitting smoking, especially when combined with Quitline counselling support.
If you are looking to quit smoking, you can get support from your doctor or pharmacist, or by calling Quitline on 13 7848.
Quit smoking and vaping
Quitting smoking or vaping is one of the most important things you can do to reduce your risk of cancer and improve your health in general — but everybody’s journey is different.
Finding lung cancer early
Lung cancer is the fifth most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death in Australia. When lung cancer is found in the earlier stages, it’s easier to treat. In July 2025, the new National Lung Cancer Screening Program was introduced for eligible Australians to help detect lung cancer early, before symptoms start to show – saving lives. If you are experiencing symptoms that are unusual for you, see your doctor.
