Canada's vaping crisis sparks calls for stricter nicotine controls ahead of No Tobacco Day
A two-day roundtable on cutting tobacco and nicotine use has just wrapped up in Canada. The meeting took place ahead of World No Tobacco Day. Health groups are now pushing for stronger action to tackle rising vaping rates among young people. Experts warn that vaping is creating a nicotine pathway in the brains of young Canadians. This makes them more likely to start smoking cigarettes later. Les Hagen, executive director of Action on Smoking and Health, confirmed that nicotine use has surged among those under 25.
The country has made progress in reducing tobacco use over the years. Today, five million fewer Canadians smoke compared to 26 years ago. But health organisations remain concerned about the shift toward vaping.
At the roundtable, groups called for stricter controls on vaping products. Their demands include banning online sales, restricting flavours, and adding stronger health warnings. The goal is to cut overall nicotine use to below five per cent by 2045. The push for tighter regulations comes as youth vaping continues to climb. Health advocates want faster action to prevent long-term nicotine addiction. The proposed measures aim to curb access and appeal, particularly for younger users.
