In South Africa, smoking rates have been steadily declining, thanks to increased awareness and tighter regulations.
However, a new trend has emerged: vaping is now viewed as the “healthier” alternative to traditional cigarettes.
The country’s finance minister, Enoch Godongwana, delivered the 2025 budget speech on Wednesday, March 12, and one key aspect that the country expected to have significant interest in is the sin tax.
The proposed adjustments to sin tax, which will take full effect from April 1, included a proposal of a 4.75% increase in tobacco excise duties for cigarettes, cigarette tobacco and electronic nicotine delivery systems (vapes).
A list of increases in duty per item
- A can of beer (340ml) – 16 cents
- Bottle of wine(750ml) – 48 cents
- Sparkling wine and spirits – R5,97
- A pack of 20 cigarettes – R1,04
- Cigars (23g) – R8,49
- Electronic delivery systems (vapes) – 14 cents per ml
Vape is seen/deemed as the healthier alternative, but is it safer? For those who have been smoking their entire lives, is vaping truly a step towards quitting or just another addiction in disguise?
With over 7.4 million South Africans smoking cigarettes, according to the South African National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (SANHANES), and an alarming rise in young people taking up vaping, it’s time to separate myth from fact.
The hidden dangers of vaping for young South Africans:
Vaping has become popular among teenagers and young adults. Marketed as a “cool, harmless alternative”, flavoured e-liquids, sleek devices, and social media trends have made it appealing. But beneath the smoke (or rather, vapour), the dangers are real:
Nicotine addiction
Most vapes contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance found in cigarettes. Research from the World Health Organization (WHO) warns that nicotine exposure during adolescence alters brain development, leading to:
- Memory and concentration issues.
- Increased anxiety and depression.
- A higher likelihood of transitioning to cigarette smoking.
Respiratory and heart health risks
Unlike traditional cigarettes, vapes don’t burn tobacco, but that doesn’t mean they are harmless. Studies by the American Lung Association show that vaping causes lung inflammation and has been linked to conditions like EVALI (E-cigarette or Vaping Product Use-Associated Lung Injury).
For young people, early lung damage can mean:
- Lower lung capacity.
- Increased risk of chronic respiratory diseases.
- Heart disease concerns later in life.
The social normalisation of smoking:
What was once taboo is now trendy. Vaping has made smoking “socially acceptable” again, undoing years of anti-smoking efforts. Young people who vape are four times more likely to start smoking cigarettes compared to those who don’t, according to a US National Institute on Drug Abuse study.
Is vaping really a better choice?
Many older smokers turn to vaping in hopes of quitting cigarettes, believing it’s the lesser evil. While some health experts agree that vaping may be less harmful than smoking, it’s not entirely risk-free.
Studies suggest that some smokers find nicotine-based vaping to be an effective quitting tool. However, pulmonologists warn that vaping is not a magic bullet. Many smokers simply switch one addiction for another.
A 2021 study by the “Cochrane Review” found that while vaping may help some people quit cigarettes, nearly 80% remain addicted to nicotine.
The long-term unknowns:
Traditional cigarettes have decades of research proving their deadly effects. Vaping, on the other hand, is still new. Long-term studies are scarce, but early findings suggest potential risks such as:
- Increased risk of high blood pressure and heart disease.
- Potential exposure to toxic chemicals in flavoured e-liquids.
- Unknown long-term effects on the lungs and immune system.
How to quit smoking and vaping successfully
Quitting is tough, but thousands of South Africans have successfully quit smoking and vaping using a mix of science-backed strategies and personal determination.
Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)
Available in patches, gums, and lozenges, NRT helps reduce withdrawal symptoms gradually. The South African Heart and Stroke Foundation recommends NRT as a safer alternative to going cold turkey.
Behavioural therapy & support groups
Talking to others who are quitting can be motivating. Groups like Allen Carr’s Easyway South Africa have helped thousands quit.
Prescription medications
Some medications like varenicline (Champix) and bupropion (Zyban) can reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. However, they should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision.
Lifestyle changes & alternative therapies
- Exercise: Physical activity reduces cravings and improves lung function.
- Mindfulness and meditation: Managing stress is crucial, as stress can trigger a relapse.
- Dietary changes: Avoiding caffeine or alcohol can help reduce cravings.
If you or someone you know wants to quit smoking or vaping, reach out to:
National Council Against Smoking (NCAS) Helpline: 011 720 3145, or your nearest government clinic for free cessation support
