UK to probe health impact of vaping on children as young as eight
1. Ban on disposable vapes, sold for as little as five pounds, due to come into force in June
UK to Study Long-Term Impact of Vaping on Children in Landmark 10-Year Study
LONDON: Britain will investigate the long-term effects of vaping on children as young as eight in a decade-long study aimed at understanding its impact on health and behaviour, the government announced on Wednesday.
Amid rising concerns over youth vaping, with estimates suggesting that a quarter of 11- to 15-year-olds have tried it, the government is stepping up its crackdown.
A ban on disposable vapes — often sold for as little as five pounds — is set to take effect in June. Meanwhile, the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, currently making its way through parliament, will restrict flavours and packaging designed to appeal to children.
"The long-term health impacts of youth vaping are not fully known, and this comprehensive approach will provide the most detailed picture yet," the health department stated.
The £62 million ($78.1 million) study will track 100,000 participants aged 8-18 over 10 years, collecting data on their behaviour, biology, and health records.
The World Health Organisation has repeatedly called for e-cigarettes to be regulated similarly to tobacco, warning of their potential to fuel nicotine addiction among non-smokers, particularly children and young people.
"It is already known that vaping can cause inflammation in the airways, and people with asthma have told us that vapes can trigger their condition," said Sarah Sleet, CEO of British lung charity Asthma + Lung UK.
"Vaping could put developing lungs at risk, while exposure to nicotine — also contained in vapes — can damage developing brains," she added.
Unlike traditional cigarettes, which are heavily taxed and face strict advertising restrictions, vapes in Britain currently avoid such limitations. They stand out on shop shelves with bright packaging and fruity flavours, raising concerns about their appeal to young people.
To address this, the government plans to introduce a flat-rate duty on vaping liquid from October 2025. The study aims to give researchers and policymakers the evidence needed to safeguard the next generation from potential health risks.
Alongside the study, a nationwide vaping awareness campaign will roll out, focusing on social media platforms and using influencers to engage directly with younger audiences.
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