Scientists from University of East Anglia warn potential UK disposable vape ban could cause a resurgence in youth smoking.
A study led by scientists at the University of East AngliaAddiction Research Group found that UK vape regulations may prompt the UK youth to switch from vaping to smoking.
The research focused on ‘Young Peoples’ use of disposable vapes’ and included 29 contributors between the ages of 16-20. It aimed to discover their motivations for vaping, methods, and personal perceptions of using disposable vapes.
Researchers conducted interviews with participants and found a ban on disposable devices in the UK would lead many to switch to tobacco products.
The study also found participants believed if disposable vapes are banned, they would still be easily accessible through illegal purchases. Many compared it to the accessibility of prohibited drugs such as cannabis .
Co-author Dr Ian Pope, from UEA’s Norwich Medical School and an emergency physician, said:
“Disposable vapes are particularly attractive and accessible to young people in the UK, contributing to the normalisation of vaping within this demographic.
“Despite recognising the potential health risks, young people continue to engage in both vaping and smoking, often interchangeably.
“The widespread availability of underage vape sales and availability of illicit vapes further exacerbates this issue.”
The research indicated that curbing underage sales could reduce disposable vape use among young people. As well as further restrictions on marketing and packaging.
However, it also suggests new laws could cause unintended harmful consequences. The results indicate a potential increase in the buying and selling of illicit vapes and a rise in youth vaping.
Illicit vape devices already make up a third of the current vape market, something noted in IBVTA’s vaping manifesto.
Lead researcher Caitlin Notley, a Professor of Addiction Sciences at UEA’s Norwich Medical School, said:
Therefore any interventions to combat use of disposables may need to be accompanied by policy interventions to reduce access to illicit vapes and tobacco and increase awareness of the relative harms of tobacco compared to vapes .”
Youth See No Difference Between Smoking and Vaping
Another key finding of the research was the participant’s perception of smoking vs vaping.
Many saw little difference between the two, despite tobacco products being significantly more harmful to our health.
Scientists concluded this was due to a lack of funding by public health. And a huge increase in negative vaping stories in the media.
Despite the disparity in opinions, vaping is acknowledged as a valuable tool for quitting smoking by the NHS, Cancer Research UK, and many other prominent charities. The researchers stressed the importance of including vaping as a smoking cessation tool in the new legislation.
Our Thoughts
At The Electronic Cigarette Company we understand the importance of putting a stop to youth vaping. However, we too believe it could cause major unintended consequences for ex-smokers and the illegal market.
Following the general election on the 4th of July, we will have a clearer idea of what legislation will be put in place.