Country view

South Africa

Africa · 59 testimonials · 32 cities represented

59 stories
32 cities
Avg age 44.4

Key insight

In South Africa, the leading product is Vape (94.9%) and the most common flavour is Fruit (32.2%).

Top product: Vape (94.9%)
Top flavour: Fruit (32.2%)

Country snapshot

59

Testimonials

32 cities represented
Avg. smoke-free years: 8.9

Avg. years smoked

19.9

Avg. previous cigarettes/day

30.1

Avg. smoke-free years

8.9

Avg. age

44.4

Demographic snapshot

Based on approved testimonials with available profile data.

Male: 86.4%
Female: 13.6%
Other / Unspecified: 0.0%
Average age: 44.4

Male

86.4%

Female

13.6%

Other / Unspecified

0.0%
GSTHR

Policy & Data Context

South Africa

Explore detailed country-level data on regulations, policies, and harm reduction from an independent global research initiative.

Global dataset
Independent research
Policy tracking
View GSTHR Profile →

Upcoming events

See THR-relevant events, consultations, hearings, and other activities linked to this country.

No published upcoming events yet for this country.

Preferred THR product stats

Preference ranking based on approved testimonials.

Most preferred product

Vape

Highest-ranked THR product in this country

94.9%
56 testimonials
Multiple products2 · 3.4%
Heated tobacco1 · 1.7%

Preferred flavour stats

Flavour ranking based on approved testimonials.

Most preferred flavour

Fruit

Highest-ranked flavour in this country

32.2%
19 testimonials
Dessert / Sweet17 · 28.8%
Multiple flavours12 · 20.3%
Menthol / Mint6 · 10.2%
Tobacco5 · 8.5%

Country Map

Explore where individuals in this country have shared their transition away from smoking.

Testimonials

Scope: South Africa
Showing 11-20 of 59
Wayne Gerber46 yrsKraaifonteinWestern Cape25 years smoked5 years smoke-freeVapeFruit

I switched to vaping in May 2021, it took me about a month to completely put the tobacco cigarettes down. Since then I have not touched a tobacco cigarette. At first I was on 50mg Nic salts, but have brought that down to 20mg Nic salts the last 18 months. A 60ml bottle now lasts me the whole month.

Anonymous43 yrsBloemfonteinFree State25 years smokedVapeMultiple flavours

I feel way better now not no need for tobacco products.

Lance S44 yrsJohannesburgGauteng24 years smoked5 years smoke-freeVapeDessert / Sweet

Smoked only, then smoked and vaped together for about 7 years. Before going for a hip replacement, the dr said they wouldn't till I quit smoking for 6 weeks. After my own research, I found that the risk of infection is 7 times greater if smoking. Could even lead to amputation. So then dropped the smokes completely and vaping only for about 5 years. I vape HEAVILY (120ml 3mg a week min) and feels like I've never touched a cigarette in my life. No more wheezing, coughing, nothing.

Anonymous26 yrsMbombela (Nelspruit)Mpumalanga10 years smoked9 years smoke-freeVapeMultiple flavours

I was given a mod with frosteez in it one afternoon to try and the rest is pretty much history, I did have a relapse back to cigarettes for a while but then made the switch back to vaping and haven't looked back since

Daniel DE Jager45 yrsPotchefstroomNorth West24 years smoked5 years smoke-freeVapeDessert / Sweet

My personal journey from long-term smoking to complete cessation began with an unexpected encounter with the vaping community. As a professional with a keen interest in technology and DIY projects, the intricate mechanics of vaping devices and the craft of coil building immediately captivated my attention. This curiosity led me to a local vape shop, where I was met with a welcoming and knowledgeable staff. Their guidance was instrumental in selecting the appropriate device and e-liquid, marking the definitive end of my smoking habit from that day forward.The transition has profoundly impacted my health and perception. Previously, I suffered from severe coughing, which at one point resulted in two fractured ribs. Since adopting vaping, this persistent cough has entirely subsided, significantly improving my respiratory health. The contrast is now so stark that I can detect the scent of cigarette smoke from a distance, a sensation that has become increasingly irritating.While my personal experience has been overwhelmingly positive, my wife continues to smoke. Despite her own respiratory challenges, she has been resistant to change, leading to a household policy where she smokes outdoors, regardless of weather conditions. This situation underscores the individual nature of addiction and the varied paths to cessation.I acknowledge the ongoing debate surrounding the health implications of vaping versus traditional smoking. However, based on my personal health improvements and the immediate cessation of debilitating symptoms, I remain convinced of its benefits for me. My experience stands as a testament to the potential of vaping as a harm reduction strategy for individuals seeking to quit smoking.

Clayton Reeve42 yrsBrakpanGauteng15 years smoked15 years smoke-freeVapeMenthol / Mint

I stopped smoking cigarettes 15 years ago. I had continuous cravings for nicotine until I started vaping. Feels much better and has no apparent side effects from vaping.

Niel51 yrsRoodepoortGauteng26 years smoked10 years smoke-freeVapeDessert / Sweet

My brother and I decided to quite combustible tobacco at the same time. I bought 2 starter kits, enough liquid, batteries and coils to last for a while. The following day we were dual users to get use to the vaping device and nicotine delivery. That was the last day that either of us smoked combustible tobacco and to date we only vape. I have to do an annual medical checkup to ensure I am fit for work. Although vaping has become part of the questionnaire over the past 5 years. Before that if I was asked if I smoke the answer was no. During the lung function test they could notice any problem with my lungs.

Anonymous31 yrsHibiscus Coast Local MunicipalityKwaZulu-Natal5 years smoked11 years smoke-freeVapeFruit

While in university I was having a braai at a friend's mom's house. She asked me not to smoke in her house. And lent me a twisp to use instead. The next morning I went to spar to get some milk. And the guy standing in front of me absolutely reaked of cigarette smoke, I asked my friend if that's how I usually smell. She said yes. Which made me conscious of how bad they smelled. A week later. On pay day. I took a drive to lung buddy at Montana traders, Joe helped me pick out a vape. The flavour blew my mind. I drove home. Put it on charge. Lit a cigarette, nearly vomited from the taste. Have had maybe 10 cigarettes since 16 Feb 2015. With in weeks I lost my smokers cough. My sense of smell is much better, and my sense of taste is much better Since then I started 2 vape stores and have worked for 4 separate ones. Through those I have helped hundreds of people both entirely quit nicotine altogether, as well as quit smoking tobacco.

Connor31 yrsKempton ParkGauteng7 years smoked11 years smoke-freeVapeFruit

Started smoking due to it being considered cool and I was curious as the friends and family at the time were smoking cigarettes too. I know for a fact that smoking cigarettes open the curiosity to try illegal substances. As for that I went into rehab for 14 months (Noupoort Christian Care Centre). I quit smoking cigarettes there as it’s forced, however I was released back into the world and the cravings were too great and I started smoking hookapipe (hubbly-bubbly). Was introduced to vaping from a friend, once I saved up enough to purchase my first vaping device and eliquid in 2015. It has become my go to, to stay away from not only cigarettes but also illegal substances. It’s been life changing experience with the community and having the opportunity to get into the business and do the same for over 3000 people. I now strive to help those who want to quit with vaping, like I did. With the correct vaping system and multiple flavours to choose from, helped me achieve a cigarette free lifestyle. Vaping has helped me experience the healthier lifestyle that I now project to others who are looking for the less harmful alternative.

Dawoe42 yrsJohannesburgGauteng12 years smoked8 years smoke-freeVapeFruit

Hi i have been a smoker since 18 year of age i am vaping for the last 8 years and been the best switch ever. My healt has never been beter and dont regret it ine day. I can taste beter and feel beter would recomend anyone to make the switch

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