Vaping poses potential health risks to children and young people, and measures should be taken to reduce its appeal to this demographic, according to a new report from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH). The review, which analyzed approximately 81 studies, suggests a link between vaping and increased rates of breathing difficulties, as well as adverse effects in infants whose mothers vaped during pregnancy.
The findings, published in the journal Archives of Disease in Childhood, indicate that vaping should not be considered a benign activity for adolescents. The RCPCH is urging the UK government to implement stricter regulations on vape sales, including a reduction in the variety of available flavors.
Experts involved in the review examined studies focusing on the health and social outcomes of vaping among children and young adults. The research identified associations between vaping and issues such as wheezing, coughing, poor oral and dental health, sleep disturbances, mental health concerns, and eye symptoms.
Professor Will Carroll, a co-author of the review, stated that the evidence clearly demonstrates links between vaping and respiratory symptoms, nicotine dependence, and a subsequent likelihood of smoking traditional cigarettes. "We must act to make vaping less attractive and accessible to children," Carroll said.
Dr. Mike McKean, vice-president for policy at the RCPCH, commented that while vaping is a relatively new product with many unknowns regarding its long-term effects on youth, a concerning pattern is emerging. "We need to keep pace with a rapidly evolving market and continue to take action to protect children from nicotine products," he added.
In July, the UK government initiated a 12-week consultation on proposals to modify the appearance, packaging, and in-store display of vapes to decrease their attractiveness to minors. The proposed changes include requiring plain packaging with limited branding and using simple flavor descriptions. Vapes would also be stored out of sight in retail environments, mirroring current regulations for tobacco products.
This consultation follows the recent passage of the Tobacco and Vapes Act, which aims to establish the UK's first smoke-free generation. Under this new legislation, individuals aged 17 and younger will be prohibited from purchasing cigarettes, as it will be illegal for retailers to sell tobacco to anyone born after January 1, 2009.
Dr. McKean described the new act as a significant step in protecting children from nicotine addiction but emphasized that it should not be viewed as a complete solution. Professor Carroll further recommended that the government consider limiting the types of flavors available, rather than just their descriptions, to deter young users.