Disposable vapes have become increasingly popular among young people in the UK. However, concerns have been raised about their potential impact on health and wellbeing, as well as their appeal to younger people. In this article, we will explore the current situation and examine the possible measures that could be taken to address these concerns.

Disposable vapes have become increasingly popular with young people in the UK. According to NHS statistics, 9% of 11 to 15-year-olds used e-cigarettes, up from 6% only three years earlier. Action on Smoking and Health states that 29.1% of 16 to 17-year-olds have tried vaping, which is a concerning picture.

Why Are Disposable Vapes Being Targeted?

Disposable vapes come in a range of bright colours and have flavours such as Cotton Candy and Strawberry Kiwi. This has raised concerns about their appeal to younger people. The UK government is concerned about the rise in youth vaping, particularly the increasing use of disposable vaping products.

How Do We Get Young People to Bin Disposable Vapes?

Public Health Minister Neil O’Brien is launching a call for evidence ahead of potential restrictions. His review will consider the appearance and characteristics of disposable vapes on the market which will include branding, marketing, colour and of course, flavours. A specific focus will be placed on social media marketing, reviewing whether these products are targeted deliberately towards younger audiences.

O’Brien will also be responding to an independent review by Dr Javed Khan OB which examined the UK government’s goal of making England and Wales smoke-free by 2030. His review included suggestions for making these vapes less appealing by mandating anti-smoking messages on packaging, similar to what already appears on cigarette packets and using less attractive colours such as green and brown to make them less aesthetically pleasing to vapers.

Is Vaping Bad for You?

Vaping is a popular alternative to smoking and has been a route to quitting smoking altogether. However, although e-cigarettes pose a much lower health risk than smoking, they are not without risk. The liquid and vapour in e-cigarettes can contain harmful chemicals, and the nicotine found in them can still be a route into nicotine addiction.

Currently, it is illegal to sell or supply cigarette and e-cigarette products to people under the age of 18. As stated by the NHS, ‘vaping is substantially less harmful than smoking but that doesn’t mean that it is harmless.’

Looking for Help to Quit Vaping?

If you started e-cigarettes as a replacement for smoking or out of curiosity, you may now be looking to quit all kinds of smoking altogether. The NHS recommends reducing the frequency of vaping over time, gradually and gradually reducing the strength of nicotine in your e-liquid. It is also worth discussing your addiction with your GP to see if there are any options available to you such as medication or guided support.

Conclusion

Disposable vapes have become increasingly popular with young people in the UK. However, concerns have been raised about their potential impact on health and wellbeing, as well as their appeal to younger people. The UK government is exploring a range of measures to address these concerns, including potential restrictions on disposable vapes. Although vaping is a popular alternative to smoking, it is not without risk, and it is essential to seek support if you are struggling with addiction.

FAQs

1. Are disposable vapes bad for you?

Although e-cigarettes pose a much lower health risk than smoking, they are not without risk. The liquid and vapour in e-cigarettes can contain harmful chemicals, and the nicotine found in them can still be a route into nicotine addiction.

2. Are disposable vapes more appealing to younger people?

Disposable vapes come in a range of bright colours and have sweet flavours, which has raised concerns about their appeal to younger people.

3. Is it illegal to sell or supply disposable vapes to people under 18?

Yes, it is currently illegal to sell or supply cigarette and e-cigarette products to people under the age of 18.

4. How can I quit vaping?

If you are looking to quit vaping, the NHS recommends reducing the frequency of vaping over time and gradually reducing the strength of nicotine in your e-liquid. It is also worth discussing your addiction with your GP to see if there are any options available to you such as medication or guided support.

5. What measures are the UK government considering to address concerns about disposable vapes?

The UK government is exploring a range of measures to address concerns about disposable vapes, including potential restrictions on their appearance and characteristics, such as branding, marketing, colour and flavours. They may also mandate anti-smoking messages on packaging and use less attractive colours to make the vapes less aesthetically pleasing to younger people.