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First vaping cessation program in Quebec for young adults

First vaping cessation program in Quebec for young adults

  • 19.03.2025 08:59
  • montreal.citynews.ca
  • Keywords: vaping, cessation, program

The Canadian Cancer Society launched Quebec's first vaping cessation program for young adults, offering personalized texts, an app, and peer support to help them quit. Vaping exposes users to toxic substances and health risks, with 25% of pilot participants successfully quitting.

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Estimated market influence

Canadian Cancer Society (CCS)

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Launched a vaping cessation program targeting young adults in Quebec.

The Canadian Press

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Provided coverage of the CCS's vaping cessation program.

Context

Analysis of Quebec's First Vaping Cessation Program for Young Adults

Market Overview

  • Target Audience: Young adults aged 18 to 24 in Quebec, who represent the largest consumer group for vaping products.
  • Prevalence of Vaping:
    • 22% of young people in this age group vape (data from the 2023 Quebec Tobacco and Vaping Products Survey).
    • Half of those who vape express a desire to quit.

Program Features

  • Program Name: I QUIT.
  • Duration: Six to eight weeks.
  • Components:
    • Personalized text messaging (up to six messages per week).
    • Mobile app with reliable vaping information.
    • Private Facebook peer support group moderated by the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS).
    • 24-hour support via keywords in registration (e.g., “motivation,” “help”).
    • Access to the I QUIT phone line and Smoking Cessation Centres.

Success Metrics

  • Pilot Program Results:
    • 351 participants in the pilot phase.
    • 25% of those who completed the program reported complete cessation during the challenge.
    • Alexandra Lalonde, CCS’s Cancer Prevention Program Manager, described these results as “very encouraging.”

Misconceptions & Risks

  • Misinformation: Many young people believe vaping is harmless, despite its potential health risks.
  • Nicotine Addiction: Most vaping products contain nicotine, which is as addictive as heroin and cocaine.

Health Implications

  • Mental Health Impact: Vaping can lead to mood disorders and depression.
  • Physical Health Impact: Potential for oral and respiratory problems (e.g., coughing, bronchitis, asthma) and heart issues in young people.

Competitive Landscape

  • Unique Offering: The program is the first of its kind in Quebec tailored specifically for young adults.
  • Support Network: Combines technology (text messaging, mobile app) with peer support and professional guidance.

Strategic Considerations

  • Targeted Rollout: Initially launched to healthcare professionals and stakeholders working with youth who vape.
  • Public Expansion: The program has now been made available to the general public via online registration.

Long-term Effects

  • Potential Impact: If successful at scale, the program could reduce future health complications associated with vaping.
  • Regulatory Relevance: While not explicitly mentioned, such programs may influence future regulatory decisions on vaping products.

This analysis highlights the significance of addressing vaping among young adults in Quebec, emphasizing both the immediate need for cessation support and the broader implications for public health.