Prevalence and Associations of Vaping in Young People Entering Youth Custody in New South Wales, Australia—A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study

Aim: Australia is a leader in rates of youth vaping. Previous research has shown that at-risk youth include young women, cigarette smokers, and young people experiencing mental distress. These risk factors suggest that young people entering custody in New South Wales, Australia, are likely to have high vaping rates, but the research is lacking. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study analysed data from all young people entering the six youth justice facilities in New South Wales, Australia between February 2024 and July 2024 (prior to vape regulations), describing self-reported information about vaping, other smoking behaviours, and mental distress. Results: 474 young people aged 11 to 20 years participated in an Initial Assessment on reception to custody. Almost two-thirds (N = 283, 61.3%) reported current vaping, with almost all vaping daily or on most days (N = 240, 84.8%) and more than half being nicotine dependent. Significant associations with vaping were a younger age, being female, living in a metro area, smoking cigarettes and cannabis, and higher levels of mental distress. Conclusions: Vaping is common in young people entering custody, is more likely in young women, and is associated with other smoking behaviours and higher mental distress. Most vaping young people are nicotine dependent, with many reporting difficulties with quitting. Targeted strategies addressing these factors will better support young people in the smoke-free custodial environment and help prevent their relapse to vaping and smoking in the post-release period.