Smoking in United Kingdom
The overall smoking prevalence in the United Kingdom has reduced significantly since 2011. 12.9% of the adult population in the United Kingdom are current smokers, down from 20.2% in 2011. This means there are now approximately 6.4 million smokers in the country. 14.6% of men smoke, whilst 11.2% of women are current smokers. The most recent data show there were 114,513 annual deaths attributable to tobacco smoking (approximately 51,700 women and 62,800 men). The annual percentage of all deaths attributable to tobacco smoking was 18.87% (women: 16.9%; and men: 20.5%). Nicotine vapes (e-cigarettes) are legal in the United Kingdom and there are 3.6 million vapers in the country, giving an adult vaping prevalence of 6.4% (women: 5.6%; and men: 7.2%). There is a requirement to ensure vape packaging contains a health warning, there are no restrictions on the range of flavours available and they can only be sold to those 18 and older. Vaping devices can be purchased without a prescription and there are no legal restrictions on their use in public places. Heated tobacco products (HTP) are allowed to be used and can be marketed, but the situation is more complicated for snus. While it is illegal to import snus for trade or buy the product online, it is possible to import it for personal use. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products can be marketed and are available to buy in many general shops without a prescription. The NRT market in the United Kingdom is worth €165.4 million. For further information and full references, click through to the detailed datasheets above.
Read articles from United Kingdom
October 02, 2024 by gsthr.org
A smokefree UK? How research, policy and vapes have cut smoking rates
The latest Briefing Paper from the Global State of Tobacco Harm Reduction (GSTHR), a project from public health agency Knowledge·Action·Change (K·A·C), focuses on the remarkable shift from smoking to vaping that has taken place in the United Kingdom in recent years. “A smokefree UK? How research, policy and vapes have cut smoking rates” explores some of the reasons behind the UK’s rapid and growing embrace of vaping, and provides another important case study showcasing the potential of tobacco harm reduction through the adoption of safer nicotine products (SNP), following our recent Briefing Paper on the effect heated tobacco products have had in Japan.
October 01, 2024 by irishnews.com
Proportion of women aged 16-24 vaping daily highest since current records began
The Office for National Statistics reports an increase in daily e-cigarette use among young adults in Great Britain. In 2023, 9.8% of adults vaped, with significant increases among women aged 16-24. While vaping aids smoking cessation, experts are concerned about its popularity among youth. Smoking rates have decreased, with 11.9% of UK adults smoking in 2023, lower among the younger population. The proposed Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to regulate e-cigarette marketing and sales. The government emphasizes the harm reduction potential of vaping while addressing smoking-related health and economic burdens. Ash advocates for smoke-free measures and smoking cessation support for the six million smokers in the UK.
October 01, 2024 by clearingtheair.eu
Half of vape users 'likely' to start smoking again due to new ban
A UK survey of vapers revealed over half are likely to return to smoking if a vaping ban is imposed, with 52% fearing they will revert to cigarettes. Twenty-six percent have tried to quit vaping, some switching to cigarettes, nicotine pouches, or gum. Concerningly, a third might turn to unregulated vaping post-ban, despite being aware of the associated risks. Many prioritize product smell and flavor over safety assurance. The study suggests exploring safe, regulated alternatives and highlights the potential of nicotine pouches in reducing smoking rates. Accessibility and simplicity are key preferences among vapers.
September 30, 2024 by dailystar.co.uk
2025 vaping ban could push Brits back to cigarettes, study finds
The UK plans to ban single-use vapes in 2025, causing concerns among vapers about returning to smoking. Research by Ubbs and Haypp shows vapers are exploring alternatives like pouches, gum, and cigarettes. Despite worries, 22% see the ban as a chance to quit vaping for good. Safety concerns persist, with some considering unregulated sources. Nicotine pouches are seen as a supportive tool for the UK's smoke-free goal. Participants prioritize taste over safety in vape alternatives. The study highlights efforts to quit vaping before the ban or switch to safer options like nicotine pouches, aiming to reduce smoking rates and improve public health.
September 16, 2024 by dailystar.co.uk
Dark side of vaping with grim side effects of anxiety, itching, toothache and confusion
Vaping has been linked to various side effects reported over the last two years, including breathing problems, tiredness, depression, and more. The UK's medicines watchdog logged 234 symptoms from 91 cases, with breathing problems being the most common. While these are self-reported and not definitively linked to vaping, the industry advises transitioning smokers may experience such effects. Vaping, considered 95% less harmful than smoking, is popular among women under 25. Relevant experts recommend consulting healthcare professionals if experiencing persistent symptoms.
September 16, 2024 by clearingtheair.eu
UK: Shock poll shows cigarettes and vapes ban is LOWEST priority among Labour MPs
A survey of 102 Labour MPs in the UK reveals that nearly half consider the proposed cigarettes and vapes ban their lowest priority. Despite PM Keir Starmer's announcement of a ban on smoking in public spaces, only four MPs ranked it among their top three priorities. Instead, Labour MPs prioritize the Great British Energy Bill, Employment Rights Bill, and Crime and Policing Bill. Concerns arise over potential vaping bans following outdoor smoking restrictions. The survey results come ahead of the Labour Party's annual conference in Liverpool, where internal debates over legislative priorities may unfold.
September 12, 2024 by news-medical.net
Research shows free vapes in emergency rooms aid smoking cessation
Research from the University of East Anglia shows that providing free e-cigarette starter packs to smokers in hospitals helped 1 in 4 quit. Over 50% of participants reduced or quit smoking 6 months later. Dr. Ward highlights the importance of personal motivation, support, and satisfaction with vaping in quitting. The study involved 1,010 daily smokers, with 24 participants providing feedback. Results suggest various quitting pathways exist, with some quitting without long-term vaping and others needing it to prevent relapse. The research emphasizes the effectiveness of opportunistic e-cigarette interventions but notes that not everyone sees vapes as medical treatments.
September 12, 2024 by filtermag.org
Can Social Workers Be Supported to Spread Tobacco Harm Reduction?
Social workers can play a crucial role in reducing smoking rates among vulnerable groups, offering support for tobacco harm reduction. The Global State of Tobacco Harm Reduction emphasizes the importance of training social workers to address smoking issues and provide cessation support. By integrating harm reduction strategies and brief interventions, social workers can empower clients to make positive changes for their health. However, amidst challenging workloads, additional support, resources, and training are needed. Ultimately, promoting tobacco harm reduction aligns with the goals and motivations of many in the social work profession and can have a significant impact on public health.
September 11, 2024 by planetofthevapes.co.uk
UKVIA Welcomes Licensing Proposals
The UKVIA supports Baroness Merrion's push for a vape licensing scheme to tackle youth vaping. The scheme seeks to enforce regulations, penalizing retailers selling illicit products or to under 18s. Baroness Walmsey also advocates for fines for illegal vape sales. The industry believes the proposed scheme could raise funds for enforcement without burdening the Treasury. Amendments to the Tobacco and Vapes Bill are being considered. Director General John Dunne urges for robust licensing to combat youth vaping effectively, emphasizing the importance of preventing illegal products in the UK market. Collaboration with ministers is anticipated to address regulatory gaps.
September 10, 2024 by rte.ie
The breathtaking waste of batteries in disposable vapes
Disposable vapes with lithium batteries are leading to significant environmental damage. In the UK, around five million vapes are discarded weekly, with only 17% recycled. The use of lithium batteries in disposable vapes is wasteful and poses dangers in disposal. The ban on disposable vapes in Ireland by 2024 reflects growing concerns. These vapes use lithium batteries for high power density but are challenging to recycle. Improper disposal can lead to fires and toxic emissions. Reconsidering the use of single-use electronics is crucial to lessen the environmental impact and address the waste issue.