Maroc - dailynews.co.za - Lifestyle - Hier 16:06

Budget 2025: parents welcome sin tax in vaping

As a potential health crisis looms over vaping amongst teenagers in South Africa, the increased taxation on electronic nicotine delivery systems could curb the predicament.This is as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana announced in his 2025 Budget speech that the government has proposed a 4.75% increase in tobacco excise duties for cigarettes, cigarette tobacco and electronic nicotine delivery systems (vaping).While scores of smokers across the country will be huffing and puffing in frustration over the news, health organisations believe that higher prices on vape products could deter individuals from vaping.This measure could prove to be particularly useful in eradicating vaping amongst teenagers, who are often allured by the fruity flavours, sleek design and social media hype which makes it appear cool and harmless.A recent study conducted by the University of Cape Town (UCT) found that nearly 30% of Grade 12 learners reported active use of vaping, with some schools seeing rates as high as 46%. Published in "The Lancet EClinicalMedicine", this study surveyed over 25 000 students from 52 schools, making it one of the most comprehensive investigations into teen vaping in South Africa.There is a growing concern about the increase in vaping amongst teenagers.In addition, 40% - 60% of learners who vape are likely addicted to nicotine, with many reporting withdrawal symptoms like the need to vape immediately after waking.Amongst these vaping dangers and in light of the news of the proposed increase in vaping-related products, a Johannesburg mother is considering forcing her 18-year-old son from vaping as she believes that won’t be able to afford it anymore.“I can barely afford to buy my son his disposable vapes so now that it will be more expensive, we are going to have to have a discussion about it,” the woman, who requested to remain anonymous, explained.She said that she discovered that her son, who matriculated last year and is currently unemployed, started vaping when he was 16.“I was very angry when I found out about it but I believed that it was better than smoking cigarettes and when he was in school, he still did well and he was still being active and playing soccer so I eventually came around and I even started buying them for him.”While acknowledging the health risks associated with vaping, she believes that it was a phase and that he would eventually quit years later, he has not done so.“If the prices of vapes go up a lot I will no longer be able to afford them.”As concerns over teen vaping mounts, a mother posted anonymously on a Facebook parenting group following the Budget Speech announcement: ““I’m devastated my kid is addicted to vaping. Yes I know we smoked as teens but at least our parents could smell it on us. Vaping is so secret. My child won’t stop vaping. But maybe this sin tax will have some effect. I’m glad the government is recognising vaping for the crisis it is”. Meanwhile, leading pulmonologist and UCT academic, Professor Richard van Zyl-Smit has warned that nicotine use during adolescence can harm the developing brain, with potential long-term effects on learning, memory, and attention.“Alarmingly, it also increases the risk of progression to conventional cigarette smoking,” he said.The potential consequences of vapingAddiction becomes a lifelong battle: nicotine can alter the brain's wiring, making it crave more and complicating attempts to quit later in life.Lung damage: vaping has been linked to serious lung conditions, including "popcorn lung", which leads to scarring of the small airways, resulting in breathing difficulties.Heart health risks: the rise in heart rate and blood pressure associated with vaping can stress the cardiovascular system, predisposing young vapers to heart disease.Mental health impacts: nicotine might worsen anxiety and depression in adolescents, initiating a harmful cycle where temporary relief is followed by increased anxiety.Gateway to smoking: evidence suggests that teens who vape are more likely to transition to traditional smoking, exposing them to further significant health dangers.What parents can do to help:1.Start the conversationApproach the subject calmly and openly. Ask them about their vaping habit without judgment. Try questions like: “What made you start vaping?” or “How does vaping make you feel?”   Let them know you’re coming from a place of concern, not punishment.2. Educate them on the risksShare real stories and research as any teens don’t fully understand the long-term damage vaping can cause. Break it down in simple terms and talk to them about how it could affect their health, sports performance and their appearance3. Help them cut back graduallyGoing cold turkey can be hard, especially for teens who are already addicted. Suggest gradually lowering nicotine levels or using nicotine-free vapes as a step toward quitting entirely.4. Get professional helpConsider reaching out to a doctor or counsellor who specialises in addiction. They can recommend nicotine replacement therapies (like patches or gum) or behavioural strategies to help your child quit.5. Be patient and supportiveQuitting is a journey and there will likely be setbacks. Celebrate small victories along the way, and remind your child that you’re in their corner no matter what.