Urgent Need for Regulatory Action on Vape Device Design to Prevent Young Māori Vaping

A researcher from the University of Otago–Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka is highlighting the urgent necessity for targeted regulatory interventions concerning vaping devices. Recent studies, including the first kaupapa Māori research using group interviews within a Māori framework, reveal that the discreet and small design of vaping devices has significantly contributed to their normalization and increased usage among young Māori adults. Participants—most between 18 and 26 years old—reported that many had never smoked but engaged in vaping, often finding the devices easy to hide due to their compact size, lack of or sweet odors, and discreet vapor production. These features, combined with nicotine dependence, promote ongoing vaping behavior.

Dr. Robin Quigg from the Department of Preventive and Social Medicine emphasized that the design attributes of vaping devices, especially their discreteness, have facilitated public vaping in spaces like libraries, clubs, and lecture theaters. The devices’ stealthy features make vaping convenient and less detectable, amplifying its normalization among youth.

The study underscores the critical need for regulatory measures to address these design elements. Dr. Quigg advocates for stricter regulations that could include requiring larger, more conspicuous device sizes, promoting designs focused on therapeutic use rather than lifestyle appeal, and banning flavors that produce appealing and pungent odors. Such measures aim to reduce the concealability of vaping devices and preserve the integrity of smoke-free environments, including outdoor areas like urupā (mausoleums), marae grounds, and playgrounds.

However, the research also notes that merely tightening device regulations will not suffice to protect young people fully. Comprehensive strategies, including reducing vaping’s appeal and addressing nicotine addiction, are essential to curb the rising trend. The findings are published in the peer-reviewed journal Nicotine & Tobacco Research and call on policy makers to implement more effective measures to manage vaping among youth.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-urgent-action-vape-device.html