Australian School-Based Program Significantly Cuts Teen Vaping Rates by 65%

A nationwide health initiative implemented in Australian schools has demonstrated remarkable success in reducing youth e-cigarette use. The program, known as the Vaping Prevention Program, was developed and led by researchers at the University of Sydney’s Matilda Center for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use. According to a recent study published in The Lancet Public Health, the intervention has lowered the likelihood of adolescents vaping by 65% within a year after completing the program, compared to peers receiving regular health education.

Led by Dr. Lauren Gardner and Professor Nicola Newton, the initiative emphasizes digital, interactive, and evidence-based strategies to improve students' knowledge about vaping dangers and equip them with practical refusal skills. The program was highly rated by students, with over 80% indicating that the skills gained would help them in real-life situations, and nearly 90% of teachers expressed positive feedback.

Dr. Gardner discussed the health implications, noting that adolescents who vape are exposed to harmful chemicals and are at increased risk of developing nicotine addiction, which can interfere with brain development. She underscored that prevention is crucial during these formative years.

Ken Wallace, CEO of Our Futures Institute—an organization supporting the program's outreach—highlighted the importance of giving students the tools to resist tobacco industry tactics and advocating for robust prevention efforts. Despite these gains, experts agree that ongoing efforts are needed to combat rising vaping rates among young people, as the use of high-nicotine vapes remains a significant public health challenge.

The study underscores the value of targeted, school-based health education as a powerful tool in curbing youth vaping and safeguarding future generations from nicotine dependence.