Vaping- who is this for?
Recently, the Association of Directors of Public Health North East has published a Position Statement on Nicotine Vaping which deems vaping as an effective quitting aid for tobacco smokers and not for non-smokers. Although there is evidence that vaping is less risky for short and medium-term smoking, it also possesses a fraction of the risks of smoking. Therefore, it should only be suggested as an alternative or an effective aid to stop smoking.
At the same time, the emphasis is on “vaping is not for non-smokers.” Besides nicotine addiction, tobacco smoking produces many different harmful chemical substances. On the other hand, people who vape or don’t smoke have significantly less exposure to toxicant biomarkers that are associated with the risks of fatal conditions like cancer, respiratory illnesses, and cardiovascular diseases.
However, ADPHNE has pointed out a genuine concern that while these products should be accessible and available for people who are making quitting attempts, there should also be enforcement of laws that retailers should not sell these items to children as many are drawn towards vaping by its attractiveness.
Takeaway messages:
- Vaping is not for people who don’t smoke and it has got its risks; therefore, it should be highly discouraged for youngsters.
- Even though smoking is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths and fatal diseases, electronic cigarette/vaping is regarded as an effective quitting aid and imposes much less harm.
- There’s a yellow card scheme under MHRA for anyone to report adverse reactions related to vaping.
If you are interested to read more about vaping, refer to the below links:
