Recent data from Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) has revealed slow progress as vapes are currently overused by teenagers, but underused by those aiming to quit smoking.
It indicates that 7% of 11 to 17-year-olds are using them, as well as use of the devices for smoking cessation stalling at 10% amongst adults. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill is currently awaiting committee stage in the House of Lords, with experts warning that the slow passing of legislation may cause harm to children and adult smokers due to vape marketing and misconceptions around the risks.
There appears to be a public health disconnect in this area, with the data revealing:
Since 2021, youth use of vapes has increased, and ASH has been calling for further regulations on vaping. They believe that the rise in use amongst young people in that time has led to high levels of public concern, with many people now thinking that vaping is at least as harmful as smoking. 26% of adults who currently smoke have never tried vaping as a tool to quit, despite evidence that it is effective.
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill would grant the Government powers to regulate the appearance of vapes, as well as the way they are marketed and sold – with the ultimate aim to reduce youth appeal without deterring adult smokers from making the swap. As such, ASH is calling for faster progress in the House of Lords, and swift implementation of measures once the bill is passed.
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