Important Information

SPECIAL REPORT: Smokeless Tobacco Products

While vaping has dominated headlines and prompted legislative action, leading to restrictions and heightened awareness, it is essential to recognise that this is just one part of a larger issue. The nicotine landscape is rapidly evolving, with new products and consumption methods continually emerging.

Often these innovations remain unnoticed until they become significantly popular among our youth, at which point they pose a substantial risk. The discreet use of these products presents new challenges for educators, making it nearly impossible to stop students from using smokeless tobacco products (SLTs) in a school setting due to their difficult detection.

It is imperative for parents and caregivers to stay informed, as there are currently no comprehensive plans to address these future challenges.

The evolving nicotine landscape requires parents and caregivers to stay informed to protect young people from these emerging threats. Snus and nicotine pouches are gaining popularity among young people as smokeless tobacco (SLT) products. Both products are discreetly placed under the upper lip, allowing nicotine absorption through the gums. Health authorities are urging proactive measures to curb this growing trend and calling on regulators to implement controls before these products become as widespread as vapes.

The high nicotine levels in these products pose serious health risks, including nicotine addiction, cardiovascular disease, gum disease, tooth decay, and even nicotine poisoning.

Researchers highlight the detrimental effects of nicotine on developing brains, linking its use to depression, anxiety, ADHD symptoms, and an increased risk of addiction to other drugs.

The marketing of snus and nicotine pouches targets young audiences through social media influencers, raising concerns about their increasing popularity among school students. And like vapes, they come in various flavours and strengths, with unregulated nicotine levels leading to inconsistent and misleading labelling.  It is clear that SLT products contain not only nicotine, but also other chemicals with unknown long-term effects.

This Special Report will help you become aware of the potential risks of smokeless tobacco products and guide you in age-appropriate discussions with your child.

Here is the link to your Special Report https://mccarthy.nsw.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-smokeless-tobacco-products-au