City Health flags nicotine dependence in young people

31 May 2026

The Department has concluded a series of sessions with thousands of learners aged seven to 18, aimed at discouraging tobacco use and creating awareness of the dangers of smoking. The theme for World No Tobacco Day 2026, 31 May 2026, is ’Unmasking the appeal – countering nicotine and tobacco addiction’.

Since the beginning of the year, City Health has facilitated awareness drives, addressed school groups and hosted interactive health education sessions at schools across the city.

The aim is to educate and empower learners to make informed decisions about their health by raising awareness of the harmful effects of tobacco use and nicotine addiction.

‘City Health promotes healthy lifestyle choices, encouraging children to avoid the use of tobacco and vapes, and promoting smoke free environments. The main goal is to prevent them from taking that first puff. Many children are exposed to smoking at home or in their communities, and the perceived status associated with it. With the facts in hand they can make decisions that will affect their current and future health,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services Councillor Francine Higham.

Tobacco use among learners is a major public health concern because it is linked to respiratory diseases, heart disease, cancer, and nicotine addiction.

Evidence from South African studies shows that approximately 21.5% of learners in grades eight to 11 reported using tobacco products, while 12.7% smoked cigarettes.

More recent studies also found that 16.8% of high school learners use e-cigarettes, with many showing signs of nicotine dependence.

‘These statistics demonstrate that tobacco use among learners is a real and growing problem. All City clinics offer youth-specific services to encourage young people to invest in their health and wellbeing. They can book appointments through the City Health self-service portal, improving access and convenience,’ added Councillor Higham.

Visit your nearest public healthcare facility for free advice and information on tobacco use, as well as guidance on how to quit.

To book clinic visits in advance, go to the City’s Healthcare Appointments System.

Captions: Learners at the Isilimela High School in Langa were given information about the dangers of tobacco products and encouraged to adopt and maintain a smoke free lifestyle.

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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office