Read articles from United Kingdom

May 12, 2025 by mirror.co.uk

Gen Z faces a ban on disposable vapes in the UK but has turned to nicotine pouches as an alternative. The ban, effective June 1, targets single-use vape products to decrease litter. The rise in nicotine pouch popularity offers a new way to consume nicotine, favored by young adults. With higher nicotine content and discreet use, pouches are becoming a replacement. However, possible health risks include gastrointestinal issues and cardiovascular effects. Additionally, concerns arise over unregulated and potentially dangerous nicotine pouches being sold, posing risks, especially to youth. Restrictions and the rise of alternative products are changing young adults' nicotine consumption habits.

May 07, 2025 by the-independent.com

Nicotine pouches, known as "snus," will face tighter regulations in the UK following the distribution of free samples, raising addiction and health concerns. The Scottish Government backs stricter control over these products to limit availability and harm, as discussed in the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. The legislation aims for a smoke-free generation, addressing new tobacco products like snus. Concerns raised by health experts emphasize the addictive nature and potential health risks of nicotine pouches. The Scottish Government supports incorporating these measures to protect young people from marketing tactics and ensure better control over such products.

May 05, 2025 by filtermag.org

The UK faces challenges with the upcoming ban on single-use vapes in June, as warnings from various groups indicate a potential surge in the illicit vapes market. Experts criticize the government for being ill-prepared, with concerns ranging from vapers switching back to cigarettes to inadequate enforcement resources. The ban may lead to a boost in the unregulated vapes market, risking harm to consumers. Despite initial reservations, some organizations now cautiously support the ban. However, fears of a thriving black market, criminal enterprises, and violence have emerged. Research shows mixed impacts on vaping behavior, with uncertainty about the ban's overall effectiveness in reducing vaping rates or promoting smoking cessation.

April 28, 2025 by clearingtheair.eu

A report reveals that distributing free vapes in Calderdale, UK, increased successful quit rates from 64% to 75%. Yorkshire Cancer Research funded the trial, showing vapes as effective in aiding cessation. Yorkshire Smokefree Calderdale now offers vape kits alongside other support services. Of the 1,110 participants, 77% using vapes or NRT quit successfully after four weeks. Vapes were preferred over other methods, especially by women and those aged 55-59, and proved cost-effective. The trial positively impacted disadvantaged communities, with 82% finding the offer of a vape device encouraging. Similar schemes in the UK have also led to successful vaping transitions among smokers.

April 22, 2025 by news-medical.net

British disposable vape ban announcement in 2024 led to a decline in e-cigarette use rates, with users switching to refillable devices. A study tracked these changes, highlighting the influence of policy on health decisions. Since 2021, youth vaping surged due to disposable vapes' appeal, prompting UK bans in 2025. Manufacturers now offer reusable alternatives. Findings suggest a shift away from disposables, indicating potential declines in vape usage. Policies play a crucial role in curbing vaping trends. Researchers analyzed data from the Smoking Toolkit Study, revealing a shift towards refillable devices post-ban. The move towards sustainability in vaping indicates positive environmental impacts but may not drastically reduce overall vaping rates.

April 18, 2025 by itv.com

Illicit nicotine pouches are flooding the UK, posing health risks, especially to children. These legal products, initially designed to help adults quit smoking, are unregulated and can be highly potent. Trading Standards reported a 112% increase in seizures, with over 8,000 confiscated in a year. Nicotine pouches are popular among teenagers due to their flavors and packaging but can lead to nicotine poisoning. Experts suggest regulating their nicotine content to protect public health. Concerns include accidental ingestion by children, addiction, and adverse effects on mental health. Legislation aims to prevent sales to minors and curb appealing branding, but calls for further restrictions persist.

April 18, 2025 by itv.com

Illicit nicotine pouches are flooding the UK, posing health risks, especially to children. These legal products, initially designed to help adults quit smoking, are unregulated and can be highly potent. Trading Standards reported a 112% increase in seizures, with over 8,000 confiscated in a year. Nicotine pouches are popular among teenagers due to their flavors and packaging but can lead to nicotine poisoning. Experts suggest regulating their nicotine content to protect public health. Concerns include accidental ingestion by children, addiction, and adverse effects on mental health. Legislation aims to prevent sales to minors and curb appealing branding, but calls for further restrictions persist.

April 16, 2025 by independent.co.uk

A study by University College London suggests that the upcoming disposable vapes ban may have limited impact on e-cigarette use, as people shift towards refillable devices. Vaping rates in the UK have stabilized, with a decline in disposable vape use. Researchers believe stricter vape policies could deter smokers from quitting. The study, funded by Cancer Research UK, analyzed data from over 88,000 adults. Policymakers are advised to prioritize measures that support smoking cessation while tackling youth vaping trends. Regulations on marketing and packaging are recommended to strike a balance. The Government aims to create a smoke-free generation with the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, addressing both addiction and waste issues related to vaping.

April 16, 2025 by bbc.com

Disposable vape use in the UK is declining as a ban set for June 2025 approaches. A University College London study shows a significant drop in 16-24 year-olds using disposable vapes, likely switching to refillable options. The ban aims to reduce littering and youth vaping rates. Experts emphasize vaping's role in smoking cessation but warn of risks for non-smokers, especially youth. The study surveyed 88,611 people and observed a rise in vape usage before the ban announcement, now followed by a shift towards reusable devices. Vape manufacturers are adapting by producing rechargeable versions. The impact of the ban on youth vaping remains uncertain, with a focus on balancing vaping regulation with smoking cessation efforts.

April 16, 2025 by sky.com

A study by UCL suggests vaping rates are stable despite a shift from disposable to reusable vapes before the UK's ban. Researchers found that vaping rates increased among adults and young adults, then remained stable post-ban announcement. Disposable vape use decreased, especially among 16 to 24-year-olds. Experts recommend caution in implementing stricter policies to avoid discouraging smokers from using vapes to quit. Public health advocates see potential in planned regulations to address youth vaping while supporting smoking cessation in adults. The upcoming Tobacco and Vapes Bill aims to regulate e-cigarette packaging, marketing, and flavors to prevent targeting children.