Vapes: Children as Young as Seven Are Now Vaping in the UK as Government Vows to Take Action

 Vaping among children and teenagers in the UK has reached alarming levels, prompting concerns about easy access to vapes and the potential for nicotine addiction. Recent reports indicate that children as young as seven have been found vaping, leading to increased calls for action to address this issue. In this article, we will explore the rising trend of underage vaping, the role of advertising, the accessibility of e-cigarettes, and the government's commitment to tackling this problem.

Alarming Rise in Underage Vaping

Labour's Shadow Minister for Health and Social Care, Andrew Gwynne, raised concerns about the alarming rise in underage vaping during an opposition day debate on July 12. He highlighted a shocking incident in Devon where schools had confiscated e-cigarettes from children as young as seven. Gwynne emphasized the ease of access for children to vapes, comparing it to the need for measures taken against the packaging of traditional cigarettes to address nicotine addiction.

Statistics and Concerns

According to statistics from Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), more than one in five children had experimented with vaping in 2023. This raises concerns about the source of e-cigarettes, as there are reports of youngsters receiving them for free from traders or as gifts from friends and family. Among 11-15 year olds, approximately 15 percent have tried vaping at least once, with Elf Bar identified as the most popular brand. The report by ASH also notes the increasing awareness of promotion among children and the growing use of disposable vapes.

Government's Commitment to Action

Health Secretary Steve Barclay has acknowledged the need to address the growing problem of underage vaping. During an oral questions session on July 11, Barclay stated that the government is closely examining the issue and intends to take further action to protect children. He emphasized the importance of recognizing that vaping is safer for smokers but advised non-smokers to avoid vaping altogether. The government is collaborating with the industry through a call for evidence, with a focus on regulating disposable vapes, which have contributed significantly to the increase in youth vaping.

The Risks of Youth Vaping

SNP spokesperson Martyn Day highlighted the risks faced by young people who vape, including the higher likelihood of nicotine addiction and the potential for transitioning to tobacco use. These concerns reinforce the urgency of addressing the issue promptly and effectively to safeguard the well-being of the younger generation.

Conclusion

The alarming rise in underage vaping in the UK demands immediate action from both the government and society as a whole. The ease of access to vapes, coupled with child-friendly advertising and the use of disposable vapes, has contributed to this concerning trend. By tightening regulations and increasing awareness about the risks, we can work towards ensuring the well-being of children and protecting them from the dangers of nicotine addiction.

FAQs:

  1. Q: What is the current situation of underage vaping in the UK?

    • A: Underage vaping has witnessed an alarming rise in the UK, with children as young as seven being found vaping.

  2. Q: How accessible are vapes to children and teenagers?

    • A: Many feel that vapes are too easily accessible to children and teenagers, leading to concerns about nicotine addiction.

  3. Q: What is the role of advertising in underage vaping?

    • A: Politicians suggest that child-friendly advertising contributes significantly to the rise in underage vaping.

  4. Q: Are e-cigarettes being given to children for free?

    • A: There are concerns that e-cigarettes are being given to youngsters for free by traders or gifted to them by friends and family.

  5. Q: What is the government doing to address this issue?

    • A: The government has vowed to take action and is working to tighten regulations and clamp down on the accessibility of vapes to minors.

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