36th UP Expert Lecture

RSVP:

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Summary:

A silent storm is brewing among South African youth – a rapid rise in vaping and

cannabis co-use. Is this an unintended consequence of recent policy shifts, such as

the Cannabis for Private Use Act of 2024 and delayed regulation of e-cigarettes? Or

are we witnessing a deeper, overlooked youth mental health crisis? Drawing on new

national survey data and global trends, this lecture explores the complex interplay

between substance use, policy, and mental well-being, while raising urgent

questions about how society and health systems should respond to protect the next

generation.

Presented by:

Professor Olalekan (Lekan) Ayo-Yusuf, Professor, Chairperson and

Head of the School of Health Systems and Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences

at the University of Pretoria.