HEALTH & 

WELLBEING CENTRE

Parents in the Dark about Teens’ Nicotine Use

Key findings:

• Cloud of confusion: Forty-four per cent of parents of nicotine-using teens are not aware their teens are currently using nicotine.
• Teen curiosity: Twelve per cent of teens are current users of at least one nicotine product, and 15 per cent are considering trying one.

• Growing dependence: Three-quarters of teens (74%) using nicotine show signs of dependence, yet half of all teens (53%) currently using nicotine want to quit or cut down.

   

New research from The Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) National Child Health Poll reveals a worrying trend around nicotine use among Australian teens, marked by high dependence and low parental awareness.

The 40th edition of the National Child Health Poll surveyed over 2,000 parents and 1,400 children aged 12–17 about children’s nicotine use, awareness and attitudes.

Dr Anthea Rhodes, Paediatrician and Director of the National Child Health Poll says, “Many teens are using nicotine without realising how addictive it is or how quickly they can become dependent.”

“We are seeing nicotine products, including vapes and pouches, marketed in ways that appeal to young people through flavours, packaging and social media.”

Dr Rhodes said the research also reveals a disconnect between what teens report using and what parents know.

“With so many parents unaware their child uses nicotine, and many parents feeling unsure they could recognise the signs of dependence or help their child quit, teens could be left without the support to quit,” Dr Rhodes continued.

Dr Moya Vandeleur, respiratory and sleep paediatrician at the RCH, said even nicotine’s immediate effects have worrying implications for teenagers.

“Nicotine acts as a stimulant, which can disturb sleep, and worsen anxiety and mood, all things many young people are already struggling with. Adding nicotine into the mix makes these problems even harder to tackle.”

She said nicotine products of all types, smoked or smokeless, carry risks.

“We know younger people with developing brains can rewire their brains and become addicted more easily to nicotine and then other substances.”

Dr Vandeleur said a helpful approach is to use everyday opportunities to talk. “If you see someone vaping in real life or on television, that can be a useful moment to check in. A simple question like, "Have you seen anyone using these products before?" can open up a conversation,” she said.

“Evidence shows having support increases the chances of quitting. Parents can start the conversation and find out more on the RCH Kids Heath Info website and other trusted services,” Dr Vandeleur said.