A recent study by researchers at University College London (UCL) has revealed a significant increase in the use of high-strength nicotine vapes in England. The research, published in the journal Addiction, found a dramatic rise in the proportion of vapers using e-cigarettes containing the highest legal limit of nicotine (20mg/ml) – from just 6.6% in June 2021 to 32.5% in January 2024.
The study, funded by Cancer Research UK, analysed data from a survey of over 7,300 adult vapers in England. This data provided a clear picture of how vaping trends have shifted in recent years, particularly concerning nicotine strength.
The most concerning finding is the sharp rise among young vapers (aged 18-24). This age group saw a staggering increase, with the use of high-strength vapes jumping from 3.9% between July 2016 and June 2021 to a staggering 53.1% in 2024.
Taxation Concerns and the Effectiveness of Vaping for Smoking Cessation
The researchers caution against a proposed policy change in the tobacco and vapes bill – taxing vape products based on their nicotine strength. They argue that such a policy could have unintended consequences, particularly for smokers trying to quit.
Dr. Sarah Jackson, lead author of the study, highlights the potential drawbacks of the proposed tax scheme. “Nicotine, though addictive, isn’t the primary culprit behind the health risks associated with smoking,” she explains. “For those attempting to quit smoking, vaping with higher nicotine content can be more effective, as it curbs cravings faster and eases withdrawal symptoms. Taxing these products more heavily would make the most effective cessation method less affordable, potentially pushing vapers towards lower-strength options and jeopardising their efforts to quit smoking.”
The study also found that nearly 40% of smokers who had quit within the last year and were currently vaping reported using high-nicotine products that would fall under the proposed higher tax bracket.
Balancing Public Health Concerns
The study co-author, Deborah Arnott, Chief Executive of Action on Smoking and Health, emphasises the need for a multi-pronged approach. “Curbing vaping among minors requires making all vapes less enticing and raising their retail price, regardless of nicotine content,” she states. “These policies would be more effective in preventing children from starting to vape in the first place. However, it’s crucial to ensure vapes remain an effective smoking cessation tool for adults. We shouldn’t discourage smokers from using higher-nicotine vapes, which research suggests are more successful quitting aids.”
The UCL study raises critical questions about the evolving landscape of vaping in England. While the sharp rise in high-strength nicotine use demands attention, particularly among young people, policymakers must carefully consider the potential impact of taxation on smoking cessation efforts. Finding a balance between public health concerns and ensuring vapes remain a viable option for those trying to quit smoking is crucial in the ongoing debate surrounding vaping regulations.
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