The debate over vaping has intensified with experts advocating for stricter controls on the sale and distribution of nicotine-based vapes. As public health concerns mount, Professor Anthony Milton has voiced strong opinions about the addictive nature of vaping products and the potential health risks they pose. This article explores the argument for making vapes available only through prescription, reflecting on nicotine’s addictive properties and the unknown long-term effects of vaping chemicals.

Nicotine Addiction: A Persistent Issue

Nicotine is widely recognised as one of the most addictive substances, surpassing even heroin in its potential to cause dependency. Originally introduced as a harm reduction tool to help smokers quit traditional tobacco, vapes have inadvertently become a new source of addiction. The introduction of nicotine into the body affects the nervous and cardiovascular systems, increasing the risk of heart attacks and influencing hormone release. This dependency poses significant health challenges, particularly as vaping becomes more prevalent among younger demographics.

Rising Concerns Over Vaping

The proliferation of vaping among youth is alarming, as younger individuals become hooked on nicotine at an early age, potentially leading to lifelong addiction. Beyond nicotine, the propellants and flavourings used in vapes, such as propylene glycol, are subjected to high temperatures during vaporisation. The long-term health effects of inhaling these vaporised chemicals remain largely unknown, stirring further concern about their impact on the lungs and other vital organs over extended periods.

A Prescription-Only Model: Learning from Australia

In response to these concerns, some health experts suggest that the UK should adopt a model similar to Australia, where vapes are only available on prescription. This approach aims to curb the widespread use of vapes by making them accessible only through medical consultation, thereby ensuring that users receive appropriate guidance and support. The British Medical Association has already recommended that vapes should be sold behind the counter, akin to cigarettes, but some argue that this does not go far enough in addressing the root of nicotine addiction.

Implications for Public Health Policy

Implementing a prescription-only model for vapes could have significant implications for public health policy. By restricting access, the hope is to reduce the number of individuals, particularly young people, who become addicted to nicotine. This measure would necessitate a concerted effort from healthcare providers to help patients wean off nicotine, potentially leading to broader discussions about addiction treatment and prevention strategies.

Source: The Guardian