The latest findings from Action on Smoking and Health (Ash) reveal that the number of adults who vape in the UK has reached an unprecedented level. The report highlights a significant rise in the number of individuals who both smoke and vape, now accounting for 32% of smokers, up from 17% in 2021. This dual use raises concerns about public health, as experts emphasise the need to address the harms associated with nicotine products. The data shows that 5.6 million adults, or about 11% of the UK’s adult population, are now vaping, with over half being former smokers. Despite vaping being touted as a tool to help quit smoking, the increase in dual use suggests the need for continued scrutiny and potential regulation.

In response to the growing trend, there is a call for stricter regulations on vaping products. Labour has proposed reviving a bill to ban cigarette sales to anyone born after January 2009, aiming to phase out smoking altogether. This could include restrictions on vape flavours and packaging to mitigate youth uptake while maintaining their role as smoking cessation aids. Public health advocates are urging the government to increase funding for local stop smoking services that support individuals in quitting smoking permanently. As the debate continues, the focus remains on balancing the benefits of vaping as a cessation tool against the risks of nicotine addiction and potential health impacts.

Source: The Guardian