A new study led by UCL researchers reveals a significant rise in long-term vaping among adults in England, with reports increasing from one in 80 in 2013 to one in 10 by 2023. The findings, published in The BMJ, highlight the growing trend, particularly since 2021, which aligns with the surge in popularity of disposable e-cigarettes among young adults, including those who never regularly smoked.
Key Findings from the Study
The study utilized data from 179,725 adults participating in the Smoking Toolkit Study, a nationally representative survey that collects monthly data on vaping habits in England. Key highlights include:
- Increased Long-Term Vaping: The proportion of adults reporting vaping for over six months rose from 1.3% in October 2013 to 10% in October 2023, with a marked increase from 2021.
- Daily Vaping Trends: Long-term daily vaping grew from 0.6% to 6.7% over the same period.
- Demographic Shifts: The rise in long-term vaping was most notable among current and former smokers, but also increased among those who never regularly smoked—from less than 0.5% before March 2021 to 3% by October 2023.
- Youth Vaping: Among 18-year-olds, 23% reported long-term vaping, including 16% who had never smoked regularly. This contrasts sharply with 65-year-olds, where only 4.3% reported long-term vaping and just 0.3% had never smoked.
- Gender and Social Grade Differences: Initially higher among men, long-term vaping rates equalized between men and women by October 2023. It also remained consistently higher among those from less advantaged social grades.
Environmental Impact and Policy Implications
The study also notes that half of long-term vapers now primarily use disposable devices, raising environmental concerns. Dr. Sarah Jackson from the UCL Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care remarked on the dual nature of vaping: while it helps people quit smoking and potentially prevents some from starting, it also exposes non-smokers to new health risks.
Professor Jamie Brown, the senior author, called for balanced new vaping policies in England to curb youth vaping without discouraging smokers from switching to vaping. Effective policies might focus on regulating retail displays, product design, packaging, descriptions, and costs.
Observational Nature and Study Limitations
As an observational study, it cannot definitively establish cause and effect. The authors acknowledge limitations in study design and measures that might have influenced the results. However, the data strongly suggest that disposable e-cigarettes are contributing to a rise in long-term vaping among young adults, including non-smokers.
Conclusion
This study underscores the significant rise in long-term vaping among English adults, particularly the youth, since the introduction of disposable e-cigarettes. It highlights the need for nuanced policies that balance youth protection with the benefits of vaping as a smoking cessation tool. As vaping habits continue to evolve, ongoing surveillance and flexible regulations will be crucial to addressing public health concerns effectively.