Read articles from United Kingdom

August 19, 2024 by clearingtheair.eu

A hospital nurse has said he feels far healthier after ditching cigarettes for vaping, as figures show vaping is the most successful aid to quitting smoking. The UK government has long said vaping can be an "effective tool" to stopping smoking, while warning that non-smokers "should never vape".

August 15, 2024 by standard.co.uk

Vapes are popular for their accessibility and perceived lower health risks compared to cigarettes. Marketed with colorful packaging, they are widely available in UK supermarkets and corner shops. Hazel Cheeseman, deputy chief executive of Action on Smoking and Health (Ash), said: “Smoking is still the country’s biggest preventable killer and vaping is one of many tools needed to help smokers quit if we are to create a smokefree country for current as well as future generations.”

August 15, 2024 by clearingtheair.eu

Vaping has become a successful tool for quitting smoking, with 2.7 million UK adults attributing their quitting to vapes in the last five years. The Action on Smoking and Health survey highlights misconceptions about vaping being as harmful as smoking. The organization urges for balanced regulations to curb teenage vaping without hindering adult smokers. Experts emphasize the importance of vaping as a smoking cessation aid, with Professor Agrawal noting its essential role in helping patients quit. There is a call for improved public understanding that vaping is less harmful than smoking and should be viewed as a cessation aid.

August 15, 2024 by bbc.com

Paul Brittain, a nurse at York Hospital, praises feeling healthier after switching from smoking to vaping through the Swap and Stop project. He is one of the 5.6 million UK adults vaping, with 11% using e-cigarettes. Despite vaping being less harmful than smoking, it still contains chemicals like nicotine. Brittain is gradually reducing his nicotine intake and experiencing improved health after years of chest infections. He sees himself as a non-smoker now, appreciating the positive changes from vaping compared to the challenges of quitting smoking previously. The government supports vaping for smoking cessation but discourages non-smokers from starting.

August 13, 2024 by fresh-balance.co.uk

Over half of those who quit smoking in the last 5 years in Great Britain used a vape, according to ASH and Fresh research. Vaping has become a popular aid for smoking cessation, with 2.7 million people using it to quit, especially in the North East region. Vaping is seen as an effective tool by health professionals, including hospital staff, for supporting smokers to quit. ASH emphasizes the need for tougher vape regulations to curb youth vaping while still promoting vapes as quitting aids. While vaping is considered less harmful than smoking, it should only be used as a means to quit. Long-term ex-smokers and even some non-smokers are using vapes, highlighting the need for continued vigilance regarding their use.

August 12, 2024 by theguardian.com

The UK sees a rise in vaping, with adults who both smoke and vape doubling to 2.2 million in three years. Action on Smoking and Health's analysis, based on YouGov data, found 5.6 million British adults vape, with half being former smokers. Labour plans to ban cigarette sales to those born after 2009 to phase out smoking. Ash calls for tougher vape regulations and increased support for smokers to quit. Misconceptions about the harm of vaping persist. The government emphasizes vaping as a smoking cessation tool, but warns against starting for non-smokers. Measures aim to protect public health and reduce NHS burdens.

August 06, 2024 by planetofthevapes.co.uk

Evapo's analysis of the 2025 disposable vape ban predicts a potential £2.8 billion economic loss and 18,000 job cuts, highlighting the vaping industry's significant contribution to the UK economy. Removing disposable vapes may hinder smoking cessation efforts, increase NHS costs, and fuel illicit markets. International bans have led to a surge in illegal vape products, posing health risks and depriving governments of tax revenue. CEO Andrej Kuttruf urges policymakers to consider these impacts carefully to safeguard both the economy and public health.

July 30, 2024 by clearingtheair.eu

UK government plans to update vaping laws with the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. A study shows 70% of Brits lack understanding of current regulations, especially in cities like Cardiff and Bristol. The bill aims to raise the legal age for tobacco purchases. Additionally, Ministers will gain authority to regulate flavors and packaging of vaping products. 46% of vapers are unaware of existing laws. There is a call for more education on alternative nicotine products and vaping rules. The legislation will tighten restrictions, including banning certain flavors and imposing limits on packaging and sales to curb youth appeal.

July 29, 2024 by barnetpost.co.uk

Barnet Council aims to recycle over £35,000 worth of illegal vapes with excessive nicotine in efforts to protect residents, especially youth, from harm. Trading standards officers will recycle 3,500 seized products, enforcing laws and supporting compliant businesses. The UK government's push for a smoke-free generation includes proposals to restrict youth access to tobacco and regulate vape products. Offenders selling illegal goods could face prosecution. Residents can report concerns to [email protected] or through London Trading Standards' website. Independent news outlets seek community support to prevent closures and information loss. Subscription options are available for supporters.

July 23, 2024 by abc.net.au

In New South Wales, the rise in tobacco retailers and illegal cigarette sales is harming legitimate businesses. With lax regulations and minimal fines, the black market thrives, causing revenue losses and increased competition.