Pupils taught to nip smoking in the bud

Tafelsig pupils were among 2 500 participants across the Mother City in a year-long campaign to learn about the dangers of tobacco use and vaping. 

The pupils, aged between seven and 17, since July last year, made up nearly 70 percent of the audiences at City of Cape Town Health's interventions around the dangers of smoking and vaping.

According to a recent survey of pupils in Grades 8 to 12 at South African schools, two percent of respondents smoke cigarettes, 17 percent vape and 36 percent had tried vaping. 

The survey also found that the frequency of vaping increased among pupils in higher grades.

Mayoral committee member for Community Services and Health Francine Higham said this is why education efforts are primarily directed at pupils. 

“There has been a decline in the use of traditional tobacco products, but they’ve been replaced by vapes and other devices,” she said. 

She said this puts authorities on the backfoot.

“Raising awareness empowers people to make informed choices and to protect themselves, and others, from the harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine,” said Ms Higham. 

She urged individuals, businesses and policymakers to take action by promoting smoke free environments, supporting tobacco cessation programmes and advocating for stronger regulations on tobacco and nicotine marketing.

“By standing together as a community, we can challenge industry tactics and work towards a healthier, smoke free City,” said Ms Higham.

Tobacco consumption remains a leading cause of preventable disease and deaths worldwide, from lung disease and heart conditions to cancer, the health consequences are both severe and far-reaching.

Beyond individual health, tobacco use impacts families, communities and healthcare systems, leading to significant economic and social burdens. 

In a media statement Ms Higham said through flavoured products, deceptive packaging and digital advertising, tobacco companies create an illusion of “safer” alternatives, downplaying the real dangers of addiction and long-term health consequences. 

Anyone needing guidance on how to quit smoking can visit their nearest City clinic.