New Jersey study: Vaping is helping smokers quit, but also creating a ‘vape generation’

E-cigarettes are helping more smokers quit in New Jersey, but their use is also increasing among young people and those who have never smoked before.

This finding comes from the latest opinion and lifestyle survey conducted by the New Jersey Island Statistics Bureau, which asked about 1,500 island residents about their habits, health status, and views on various aspects of life on the island.

The report shows an increase in the number of smokers, with daily users rising from 4% in 2022 to 5% in 2023.

More than a quarter (26%) of surveyed adults have tried or currently use e-cigarettes, up from 19% last year.

Data also shows an increase in the proportion of smokers using e-cigarettes to quit, rising from 22% in 2022 to 36% in 2023.

Half of those aged 16 to 34 have tried e-cigarettes, with 29% of them having never smoked.

A joint survey by New Jersey Express and the Jersey Journal revealed that candy-inspired flavors, neon-colored packaging, and a lack of regulation mean that products illegal in the UK can still be sold locally, contributing to what a doctor on New Jersey Island calls the "nicotine-addicted generation."

Despite legal regulations against selling e-cigarettes to those under 18 in New Jersey, a 2021 survey of children and adolescents found that 58% of 16- to 17-year-olds had tried e-cigarettes, with about one-third using them occasionally or regularly.

Health Commissioner Dr. Peter Bradley stated at the time: "Occasional use of e-cigarettes among children has become more common, but very few young people continue to use e-cigarettes occasionally or regularly."

"While it is an effective tool for quitting smoking, it is not recommended for non-smokers, especially children."

Last year, the government announced plans to ban disposable e-cigarettes due to "environmental and health reasons."

The proposed ban will undergo consultation but could be introduced through an expansion of the disposable plastics law.

This law has already banned the distribution of single-use plastic bags and single-use paper bags in New Jersey Island and aims to be able to prohibit other single-use items, such as disposable e-cigarettes.

Ministers will also investigate whether e-cigarettes should be taxed like tobacco.

The "Government Plan"—which outlines spending and tax plans for the next three years—states: "With the increasing popularity of e-cigarettes, a range of products with varying designs, chemical compositions, health impacts, and environmental consequences has emerged.

"This complexity requires an evidence-based review to develop a balanced and effective tax framework that aligns with the regulatory and awareness strategies set forth by the government in the 'Government Plan' and ministerial priorities."