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It jumped to more than 15 percent of the population.
What makes matters more worrying for health experts is that the long-term health effects still remain as hidden as the ingredients inside.
“We know nicotine liquid is toxic, but … because it’s not regulated, we don’t know what’s inside this stuff,” Dr. John Williams of the AMA told 9News.
Both the federal and state governments are in the midst of a major crackdown on cigarette use and smoking, including new bans in public places.
But since they were introduced, no one has been fined.
However, 11 illegal tobacco sellers were fined a total of $11,000.
“When it comes to illegal perfume sales and illegal cigarette sales, organized crime is heavily involved in this area and needs a much tougher approach,” SA Health Minister Chris Pickton said.
Beginning July 1, Consumer and Business Services will take over cleaning stores of illegal merchandise.
SA Health will retain some enforcement responsibilities after that date, but will focus on smokers who light up – the new or the old way – in public places.
He said he was still on track to reduce the smoking population to 6 percent by 2027.
He also hoped the federal senate would pass legislative reforms to restrict vapes in pharmacies and make them available only with a prescription.
“Usually we see this data hover around a few percentage points, but to see it double in just one year is incredibly concerning and it highlights why we need to take action,” Picton said.
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