Leading UK doctors called on the government Wednesday to enact legislation aimed at addressing a "vaping epidemic" among young people, specifically by prohibiting disposable e-cigarettes and all flavors except tobacco. This plea was made in conjunction with the release of a British Medical Association (BMA) report, described as a "blueprint" for necessary bold actions. The previous Conservative government had announced plans earlier this year to gradually eliminate smoking, along with banning disposable e-cigarettes and limiting their flavors and packaging. The new Labour administration, which came to power early last month, has reintroduced the draft legislation but has not yet specified its exact strategy.
The BMA report highlighted that vaping among children and young people has surged nearly six-fold over the past decade. It urged the government not to "shy away from taking brave action" to curb this trend. "There is no denying we are living in a vaping epidemic," said Professor David Strain, chair of the BMA's board of science. He pointed out that one in 10 adults now vape, and the six-fold increase among those aged 11 to 17 is particularly concerning. "As a doctor, I understand the role vapes can play in helping people to stop smoking, but they have no rightful place in our children and young people's lives," Strain added.
The report advocates for banning all disposable vape and non-tobacco flavor sales, along with the use of imagery, coloring, and branding on packaging and devices, mirroring current restrictions on cigarettes. The BMA also seeks restrictions on advertising and marketing, and rules to keep vapes out of public display in retail settings. Additionally, it recommends government education campaigns on the dangers of vapes to reduce their appeal, especially among young people. "We are calling on ministers to take bold and brave actions that will make a real difference," said Penelope Toff, head of the BMA's public health medicine committee. A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson described marketing vapes to children and young people as "utterly unacceptable," and stated that planned legislation will outlaw this practice while regulating flavors, packaging, and display in shops.
