Read articles from United Kingdom

January 22, 2026 by clearingtheair.eu

Government-backed schemes promoting vaping have led to a significant drop in smoking rates across UK, with places like Richmond-upon-Thames achieving a 5.3% smoking rate, close to the national "smoke-free" goal. Richmond's successful Stop Smoking Service, offering free vape kits and assistance, has helped over 178 residents quit smoking in a year. This approach is supported by evidence of vaping being less harmful than cigarettes and an effective quitting aid. Similar successful initiatives, like Swap to Stop in Dorset, have helped thousands switch to vaping, showing health and financial benefits. Quitting smoking can save individuals around £285 monthly.

January 21, 2026 by medicalxpress.com

A study led by Queen Mary University of London found that smokers who quit with e-cigarettes and continue vaping may reduce the risk of relapse back to smoking. Compared to nicotine replacement therapies, e-cigarette use showed higher effectiveness in helping smokers stay smoke-free. Continuing vaping was associated with lower relapse rates, suggesting it could have a positive health impact. The study highlights the importance of further research to confirm these findings over a longer period.

January 14, 2026 by gfn.tv

Join us for the interview with Martin Cullip as he break down the UK Tobacco and Vapes Bill, expected to become law in 2026. He explores the generational smoking ban, vaping and nicotine regulations, and potential impacts on adult users. Learn why nicotine pouches, flavor restrictions, and ministerial powers are sparking debate, and how consumers and harm-reduction advocates can make their voices heard.

January 14, 2026 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) has revealed that new data shows 69% of British 11–17-year-old smokers say that, if they had their time again, they would not have started smoking. Almost two-thirds expressed a desire to quit and the anti-smoking charity says its findings highlights the importance of phasing out the sale of tobacco. ASH’s annual survey covered almost 3,000 children and was conducted by polling company YouGov.

January 07, 2026 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

VPZ, the UK’s largest specialist vape retailer dedicated to harm reduction and responsible vaping, has urged MPs returning from their Christmas recess holidays to prioritise the Tobacco and Vapes Bill as one of their first priorities of the New Year. As a start, it says it wants the politicians to confirm a date for its Report Stage as soon as possible.

January 07, 2026 by bbc.com

Schools are struggling with vaping issues, feeling isolated in the battle against student addiction. Teachers report installing vape detectors, deploying extra staff, and altering school grounds to curb vaping. Some students have ended up in hospitals due to spiked vapes. Schools face financial strain and disrupted learning environments. Efforts to tackle vaping include educating students and seeking government support. The World Health Organisation warns of a youth vaping epidemic, with children being nine times more likely to vape than adults. Schools advocate for clearer guidance, parental support, and stricter measures to address the problem. Legislators are urged to act swiftly to prevent long-term consequences of youth vaping.

January 06, 2026 by 2firsts.com

Government officials, in correspondence with 20isPlenty campaigners, acknowledge that nicotine pouches are safer than smoking and a harm reduction tool but warn about their high nicotine content. The campaigners advocate for a 20mg strength cap, strong age limits, and avoiding blanket restrictions. Pouches will be a separate category under the Tobacco and Vapes Bill with restrictions on under-18 sales. The government plans consultations on flavors and ingredients, commissions more research, and aims for evidence-based policy. Campaigners push for a 20mg cap, strict age limits, and enforcement to prevent unintended consequences. The government, while recognizing lower risks, emphasizes concerns about nicotine addiction and plans for further research and regulations.

January 05, 2026 by theguardian.com

Vaping has surpassed smoking in the UK, with concerns rising about its addictive nature. While less harmful than smoking due to lack of combustion, vaping still poses risks, especially for young people. Quitting vaping involves addressing both physical and behavioral components of addiction, with support options such as text messages, medications, and therapy showing promise. To quit successfully, it's crucial to identify triggers, reduce gradually, set limits, consider lower nicotine products, change flavors, manage cravings, seek professional help, and build a support system. For young people, avoiding vaping altogether is advised, with understanding and tailored support essential for cessation.

January 05, 2026 by aol.com

The rising use of cannabis vapes, containing THC, in Bradford poses a threat to youth. Despite being illegal for recreational use, these products were found on sale in the area. A recent raid discovered vapes with pure cannabis at a local off-licence. Concerns were raised about youths being hospitalized due to vaping, as they find it appealing for being odorless and discreet. Some vapes even contained Spice. Authorities discussed the issue during a licensing meeting and emphasized the dangers, including potential overdoses. A shop linked to such activities had its alcohol license revoked. Drug charity Forward Leeds warned about the risks of consuming THC through vaping.

December 22, 2025 by theguardian.com

A survey revealed 1 in 8 teenagers aged 14-17 have used nicotine pouches, raising concerns about addiction. Although pouches don’t increase cancer risk, there are worries about nicotine dependence and oral health issues. Most teens obtain them from friends or stores without age restrictions. The UK plans to tighten regulations on sales to minors and decrease appeal through packaging and flavors. Notable brands include Velo, Nordic Spirit, and Zyn, leading to increased warnings from health experts about nicotine's heart and vascular toxicity. While some view pouches as less harmful than cigarettes or vapes, regulations aim to prevent youth addiction. The tobacco and vapes bill will address underage sales to safeguard public health.