Country view

South Africa

Africa · 93 testimonials · 43 cities represented

93 stories
43 cities
Avg age 39.7

Key insight

In South Africa, the leading product is Vape (91.4%) and the most common flavour is Fruit (35.5%).

Top product: Vape (91.4%)
Top flavour: Fruit (35.5%)

Country snapshot

93

Testimonials

43 cities represented
Avg. smoke-free years: 7.7

Avg. years smoked

16.5

Avg. previous cigarettes/day

28.0

Avg. smoke-free years

7.7

Avg. age

39.7

Demographic snapshot

Based on approved testimonials with available profile data.

Male: 79.6%
Female: 20.4%
Other / Unspecified: 0.0%
Average age: 39.7

Male

79.6%

Female

20.4%

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

91.4%
85 testimonials
Multiple products4 · 4.3%
Heated tobacco3 · 3.2%
Other1 · 1.1%

Preferred flavour stats

Flavour ranking based on approved testimonials.

Most preferred flavour

Fruit

Highest-ranked flavour in this country

35.5%
33 testimonials
Dessert / Sweet21 · 22.6%
Multiple flavours21 · 22.6%
Menthol / Mint9 · 9.7%
Tobacco7 · 7.5%
Other1 · 1.1%
Candy1 · 1.1%

Country Map

Explore where individuals in this country have shared their transition away from smoking. Currently showing cities in North West.

Testimonials

Scope: North West
Showing 1-5 of 5
Thys Fourie•37 yrs•Rustenburg•North West•24 years smoked•3 years smoke-free•Vape•Tobacco

I start smoking from a young age, was hooked and could not see myself without the smoking it is part of me and who I' am. 24 years later my children was born and could not let them inhale the same smoke that I had as a child and also develop the same edictions I had. My goal was to change my behaviour and not set an example how to start smelling like an ashtray and think it is right to be like that and sit with all the same closed chest and health problems I sit with while smoking.

Anonymous•45 yrs•Rustenburg•North West•20 years smoked•10 years smoke-free•Vape•Multiple flavours

Tried multiple times to quit smoking cigarettes but failed every single time, until I tried Vaping. I switch from cigarettes to Vaping in a matter of 2 days. I am now 10 Years smoke free and will never take up cigarettes again. My health has never been better since I switched to Vaping. No more bronchitis. Lung function tests improved significantly. Vaping has improved my quality of life 100%

Tiané Van Tonder•23 yrs•Rustenburg•North West•2 years smoked•Vape•Fruit

I started Vaping Mainly because it helped reduce the stress of day to day life. Now i am only after the flavor

Daniel DE Jager•45 yrs•Potchefstroom•North West•24 years smoked•5 years smoke-free•Vape•Dessert / 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.

Reginald Botha•43 yrs•Zeerust•North West•25 years smoked•Vape•Dessert / Sweet

I have been smoking since age of 16 gave tried multiple times to stop smoking just cant seem to stop smoking but i am smoking 3 cigarettes a day and vaping but i am sure will kick habit in this year

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