Vaping Trends Among Ex-Smokers in England: An Eye-Opening Study

Vaping Surge Among Ex-Smokers in England

In a fascinating turn of events, a recent study published in *BMC Medicine* found that about one in five former smokers in England are now using e-cigarettes. This translates to an astonishing 2.2 million people. Conducted by researchers from University College London (UCL) with funding from Cancer Research UK, the study delved into the habits of over 54,000 adults between 2013 and 2024.

The findings marked a notable rise in vaping, especially after 2021. The boom in disposable e-cigarettes was a significant contributor to this trend. Among ex-smokers aged 18-24, a whopping 59% reported vaping in 2024. In contrast, only 11% of those over 65 said the same, pointing to a distinct age-related pattern.

But it's not just age causing the shift. The study also spotted a link between heavy drinking and vaping. About 35% of the heaviest drinkers were found to use e-cigarettes. This correlation adds another layer to the already complex picture of nicotine consumption in England.

Implications and Health Concerns

Dr. Sarah Jackson, the lead author of the study, highlighted that while e-cigarettes can help people quit smoking, there's unease about long-term users who had previously kicked the nicotine habit. There's a concern that adopting vaping later might carry some unintended health risks.

Dr. Jackson also mentioned that it could be wise to gradually reduce vaping to prevent a slide back into smoking. Nonetheless, there's a call for more research to understand vaping's full impact on public health. As e-cigarettes become more entrenched in both quitting strategies and social habits, understanding their effects is more vital than ever.

This study points to a rapidly changing landscape in nicotine use and potentially sets the stage for future health guidelines.