New Study Links Youth Vaping to Increased Health Risks

A comprehensive study has revealed alarming health risks associated with vaping among children. Researchers found that young individuals who vape are significantly more likely to become smokers, develop asthma, and experience poor mental health outcomes. This study, the largest global review on youth vaping to date, provides strong evidence that vaping can act as a gateway to more serious substance use.

The research indicates that children who vape are approximately three times more likely to transition to smoking compared to their non-vaping peers. The findings were published in the journal Tobacco Control, highlighting consistent evidence linking vaping with increased chances of respiratory illnesses and substance abuse, including alcohol and marijuana.

Dr. Rebecca Glover, the senior author of the study and an assistant professor at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, emphasized the detrimental impact of vaping on youth health. She stated, “Vaping is having a detrimental impact on the health of young people globally and vaping appears to be a gateway to other substances.” The study showcases the serious range of physical and psychological harms faced by young vapers, who are at a heightened risk of transitioning to smoking.

Researchers from the University of York and LSHTM conducted a thorough analysis of existing reviews on youth vaping, which included data on e-cigarette use and subsequent cigarette smoking. The results demonstrated not only that vapers are more likely to start smoking, but they also tend to smoke more frequently and with greater intensity.

The study further investigated the respiratory implications of vaping. Young people who vape showed an increased risk of developing asthma or experiencing asthma exacerbations. Other health risks identified included pneumonia, bronchitis, reduced sperm counts, dizziness, headaches, and migraines. Mental health issues, such as depression and suicidal thoughts, were also found to be more common among young vapers.

The authors of the study underscored the need for stronger public health measures to protect adolescents from the risks associated with vaping. In June 2023, a ban on disposable vapes was introduced across the UK to curb their use among young people. This legislation prohibits the sale of single-use vapes by retailers, including corner shops and supermarkets, both online and in-store. The ban applies universally across Scotland, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, encompassing all disposable vapes, regardless of nicotine content.

In response to the study’s findings, Dr. James Murphy, director of science and research at British American Tobacco (BAT), contested the results. He argued that evidence supporting the idea of vaping as a gateway to smoking is minimal. “In fact, it has helped millions of adults move away from cigarettes,” he stated. He acknowledged that while vaping is not risk-free, it presents significantly lower risks compared to traditional smoking. Dr. Murphy advocates for smart regulations that provide adults access to safer alternatives while preventing underage use to achieve a smoke-free society.

Jamie Strachan, operations director at VPZ, reinforced that vaping is intended solely for existing adult smokers as a less harmful alternative to combustible tobacco. He stressed that vaping products should never be marketed to, sold to, or used by children and non-smokers. VPZ supports strict regulations aimed at preventing access to vaping products for those under 18.

The evidence gathered in this study highlights the urgent need for public awareness and regulatory action regarding vaping among youth, as the health implications continue to unfold on a global scale.