"None of us smoke cigarettes, the majority have transitioned to vaping." - Vaping Consumer
- Kim
- Jun 28
- 2 min read
My Journey from Smoking to Vaping
For 22 years, I was a cigarette smoker. A habit that had been part of my life for over two decades had severely compromised my health and quality of life. Five years ago, I made a life-changing decision to stop smoking cigarettes. This significant health milestone was only achievable through the discovery of a vaping brand, device, and flavour that suited my needs.
Since making the switch, I have experienced a remarkable improvement in my health, particularly in my cardiovascular well-being, contrary to the years spent smoking. My journey reflects a broader narrative shared by many Australians who have found vaping a pivotal tool in their quest to quit smoking.
Impact on My Social Circle
Reflecting on my late teens and early 20s, smoking cigarettes was a prevalent habit among my social circles. Today, the landscape is markedly different, none of us smoke cigarettes, and the majority have transitioned to vaping, citing it as a safer and healthier substitute. This collective shift is a testament to the role that vaping can play in public health, particularly in reducing cigarette consumption among adults.
Concerns with the Prescription Model
The prescription model for accessing vape products raises significant concerns for me and the broader public, including current vapers and those contemplating quitting smoking. This model introduces unnecessary barriers for individuals seeking safer alternatives to smoking, potentially deterring smokers from pursuing a less harmful option (despite the false negative media publicity of late).
Accessibility and ease of transition are crucial in the decision to switch from smoking to vaping; the prescription model complicates this process, likely discouraging individuals from making a positive change in their health journey.
Furthermore, the prescription model does not address the needs and preferences of vapers like myself, who have carefully selected products that suit our specific needs without the intervention of a prescription and limitations on suppliers, product range, etc. It risks alienating a significant portion of the population that has successfully used vaping as a cessation tool, undermining public health objectives.
Conclusion
The collective experiences of my social circle and myself underscore the importance of maintaining accessible vape products for adults seeking to quit smoking. While protecting young Australians from the potential harms of vaping is imperative, it is equally crucial to consider the needs of adult smokers looking for viable cessation tools.
By focusing on stringent regulation, strict enforcement, and supporting the role of legitimate businesses in harm reduction, we can achieve a balanced solution that safeguards public health while respecting the choices of adults who choose vaping as a step towards a healthier lifestyle without resorting to prohibition.
Submission To Therapeutic Goods and Other Legislation Amendment (Vaping Reforms) Bill 2024 Inquiry
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