Cannabis Vaping Emerging Among New Zealand Teens, With Use Highest in Disadvantaged Groups

Lifetime cannabis use declined from 2012-2018, but past-month (8.6%), weekly (3.4%), and daily (1.5%) use remained stable. Cannabis vaping was reported by 24% of past-month users. Use of both modes was elevated among Maori, same/both-sex attracted students, and those in high-deprivation schools. Cannabis use was strongly associated with tobacco and alcohol use. Exposure to secondhand smoke at home and low parental monitoring were key correlates.

Repeat cross-sectional nationally representative surveys (2012-2018) of 11,405 students aged 14-15 in New Zealand, response rates 59-65%. Measured cannabis smoking and vaping frequency, demographic correlates, and associated risk factors.

Cannabis vaping is a new mode of use among young people with unknown health consequences. The strong socioeconomic gradients in early-onset cannabis use highlight that drug prevention must address structural inequities, not just individual choices.

The emergence of cannabis vaping among 14-15-year-olds represents a new public health challenge. Combined with persistent disparities, this suggests prevention efforts need both technological awareness (vaping) and structural approaches (addressing poverty, discrimination).

Self-reported data may underestimate use. Response rates declined over time (65% to 59%). Cross-sectional design cannot establish causation for correlates. New Zealand context may not generalize. Cannabis vaping questions were only available in later survey years.