Vape stores in Western Australia: growth, proximity to schools and socio-economic gradient of density

CONCLUSIONS: There has been rapid, recent growth in the number of vape stores in WA, with most located within walking distance of schools. In metropolitan WA, vape store density is strongly associated with socio-economic disadvantage, mirroring the pattern observed globally for tobacco outlets.IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH: This is the first Australian study demonstrating that vape stores are more densely located in socio-economically disadvantaged areas. Vape stores' proximity to schools may increase young people's access and exposure to promotional signage. There is a need to address ready e-cigarette availability through strong regulatory and compliance measures.PMID:38296754 | DOI:10.1016/j.anzjph.2023.100118
Source: Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health - Category: International Medicine & Public Health Authors: Source Type: research