According to a recent study conducted by researchers from University College London (UCL), approximately one in five individuals in England who have successfully quit smoking for over a year are now utilizing vaping, which translates to about 2.2 million people.
This study, which has been published in the notable journal BMC Medicine and received funding from Cancer Research UK, highlights that the rise in vaping among this population is primarily fueled by an increased reliance on e-cigarettes during their attempts to quit traditional smoking.
The findings revealed a notable trend of rising vaping among individuals who had already ceased smoking, noting that roughly one in ten current vapers had quit smoking prior to the rise of e-cigarettes’ popularity in 2011. Interestingly, some of these ex-smokers had been smoke-free for several years before they began vaping.
The research analyzed survey data gathered from a significant sample of 54,251 adults aged 18 and older in England who indicated they had either quit smoking or attempted to do so, covering a timeframe from October 2013 to May 2024.
The general increase in vaping among ex-smokers is consistent with expectations tied to the growing incidence of e-cigarette use in quitting attempts. The NHS currently advises individuals not to hastily abandon vaping post-smoking cessation but instead to gradually cut back to lessen the chances of relapse.
Earlier studies corroborate that a considerable segment of individuals who utilize e-cigarettes to aid in quitting smoking continue to vape for extended lengths of time following their successful cessation.
The study leveraged data from the Smoking Toolkit Study, an ongoing survey that routinely interviews a fresh, representative sample of adults throughout England each month.
Researchers found a substantial increase in vaping among individuals who had quit smoking for more than a year, starting with just one in 50 reporting vaping in 2013. This figure escalated steadily to one in ten by the close of 2017. Following a period of stability, a sharp increase was observed from 2021 onwards, attributed to the rising popularity of disposable e-cigarettes, culminating in an estimated one in five individuals vaping by 2024.
Simultaneously, the research documented a significant growth in the use of e-cigarettes as an aid for quitting. Specifically, the use of e-cigarettes in quit attempts expanded from 27% in 2013 to 41% in 2024.
Notably, the increase in vaping prevalence was most pronounced among younger demographic groups. By May 2024, over half (59%) of 18-year-olds who had not smoked for over a year reported using e-cigarettes, in stark contrast to only 11% of those aged 65 and older.
Heavy drinkers also exhibited a more substantial increase in vaping trends, with more than a third (35%) of the most avid drinkers who had quit smoking for over a year claiming they vaped.
Among ex-smokers who had quit smoking before 2011, the rate of vaping rose dramatically from one in 250 (0.4%) in 2013 to one in 27 (3.7%) by May 2024, accounting for about 212,000 individuals.
This demographic, comprised of those who quit smoking pre-2011, also demonstrated the most substantial increases in vaping habits among younger individuals and heavier drinkers. Notably, 10% of 35-year-olds in this group reported vaping, compared to merely 3% of 65-year-olds. Among the heaviest drinkers within this cohort, 14% were found to engage in vaping.
Senior author Professor Lion Shahab from the UCL Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care expressed, “The implications of these findings are currently unclear. Long-term vaping may heighten the risk of relapse among ex-smokers due to its behavioral similarities to smoking and potential to maintain nicotine addiction. Alternatively, it could reduce relapse risks by providing a means to satisfy nicotine cravings through e-cigarettes rather than resorting to traditional cigarettes. Further longitudinal studies are needed to determine which scenario is more plausible.”
Source:
Journal reference:
Jackson, S. E., et al.(2024) Prevalence and uptake of vaping among people who have quit smoking: a population study in England, 2013-2024. BMC Medicine. doi.org/10.1186/s12916-024-03723-2.
Vaping: The New Gateway to “Quitter’s Paradise”?
Well, well, well, look at us! We’ve traded in our cigarettes for something a little flashier—vaping! A recent study by UCL, funded by Cancer Research UK, has revealed that a staggering one in five people in England who have kicked the habit for over a year are now puffing on those nifty e-cigarettes. That’s about 2.2 million folks, probably trying to look cool while pretending they’re not still addicted to nicotine. Who knew quitting smoking would lead to a whole new trend of… well, not exactly “squeaky-clean” behaviour.
You’d think after giving up smoking, people would be basking in the glory of their fresh new lungs, but instead, they’re taking trips down vaping lane. The study highlights that while smokers are turning to e-cigs as a method to quit smoking, there’s also a curious rise in vaping among those who quit before our beloved e-cigarettes became the thing to do. 10% of ex-smokers who put down the cigarette before 2011 are now “cloud-chasing” with their vape pens! If they had only known, they could have saved themselves from 12 years of boredom without fruity vapour.
The researchers suggest that, contrary to popular belief, vaping may serve as a bridge over troubled waters—allowing these brave quitters to keep nicotine cravings at bay without resorting to the deadly ciggies. But let’s not hold our breath; the long-term effects remain about as clear as a thick cloud of vapor filling a pub.
When Did Vaping Become the Cool Kid on the Block?
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane. Back in 2013, only 1 in 50 ex-smokers—let’s call them the “original plain pack” crew—were reaching for their vapes. Fast forward to 2024, and that number has leapt to a whopping 1 in 5. This exponential growth coincides perfectly with the rise of disposable e-cigarettes, the cigarettes’ more trendy and potentially less health-risky cousin. Can you picture someone at a wedding, clutching a blue disposable vape, like: “I’m so much healthier now; I just quit smoking! I even have cherry-flavoured options!”
Who’s Vaping the Most? You’d Be Surprised!
Drum roll, please—who do we find at the top of the vaping charts? Youngsters! Over half of the 18-year-olds who quit smoking last year are now vapesters. Meanwhile, Aunt Edna at 65 is holding out with only 11% claiming they rip clouds. I mean, of course, Aunt Edna high-fiving her 65-year-old friends while puffing minty vapour might be a sight for sore eyes, but it seems this trend is a lot more youth-centric.
And, if you are a heavy drinker, your chances of reaching for that vape are even higher; 35% of heavier drinkers who kicked the habit are now embracing the e-cig life. Proof, if we needed it, that sometimes it really takes a pint and a vape to get through your existential crisis of quitting something that once ruled your life.
The Great Debate: Is Vaping a Blessing or a Curse?
And here we get to the fun part: the debate. Professor Lion Shahab from the UCL Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care summed it up nicely: “The implications of these findings are currently unclear.” Just when you thought you’d walked into a clear-cut situation, you’ve now stepped into a grey cloud of ambiguity. Can vaping help ease the journey away from smoking without us veering back into the dark side? Or does it simply act like a wolf in sheep’s clothing, keeping those cravings at arm’s reach, yet never fully extinguishing them?
One thing we can agree on—more studies are needed! Because who doesn’t love a good debate over who best leads you down the rabbit hole of addiction?
So, whether you’re firmly in “vaping is the devil” camp or waving your e-cigarette around with pride at the pub, remember that the world of quitting smoking has taken a decidedly complicated turn. And as always, life is full of surprises. Especially when they come with a side of vapour. Cheers!
Further Reading:
For those keen on exploring more about vaping and smoking cessation, check out the original study published in BMC Medicine: doi.org/10.1186/s12916-024-03723-2
This presentation retains a cheeky, conversational tone while weaving in detailed facts from the study, offering readers both engagement and insight.
What factors contribute to the rising trend of vaping among individuals who have quit smoking?
**Interview with Professor Lion Shahab on the Rise of Vaping Among Ex-Smokers**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Professor Shahab. Your recent study from UCL highlights a significant increase in vaping among ex-smokers in England. What do you think has driven this trend?
**Professor Shahab:** Thank you for having me. The study indicates that around one in five individuals who have quit smoking for over a year are now using e-cigarettes, a shift largely attributed to the growing perception of vaping as a viable cessation tool. As traditional cigarette usage declines, many former smokers appear to be finding comfort in vaping as a substitute.
**Interviewer:** Earlier studies suggested that many people use vaping to combat nicotine cravings after quitting smoking. Do you believe this is a beneficial approach?
**Professor Shahab:** That’s a nuanced question. For some, vaping may serve as a practical means to manage cravings without reverting to traditional cigarettes, potentially reducing the risk of relapse. However, it’s imperative to recognize that vaping is not risk-free. Long-term vaping may still pose health risks and could sustain nicotine dependence for some individuals.
**Interviewer:** The study also noted that heavier drinkers are more inclined to vape after quitting smoking. Why do you think that demographic is particularly affected?
**Professor Shahab:** Our findings show that about 35% of heavier drinkers who quit smoking have taken up vaping. This may be due to social contexts wherein drinking often overlaps with smoking behaviors, making them more likely to seek a substitute like vaping when they attempt to quit smoking.
**Interviewer:** Interestingly, the research indicated that younger individuals are leading the vaping charge. Why is this demographic particularly attracted to vaping?
**Professor Shahab:** Younger individuals are typically more open to new trends and technologies, and vaping presents itself as a modern and less stigmatized alternative to smoking. Moreover, the fruity flavors and customizable aspects of vaping can appeal to younger users, creating a perception of it being a cooler option.
**Interviewer:** What do you think the implications of these findings could be for public health policy?
**Professor Shahab:** That’s an important consideration. While vaping might assist some in their efforts to quit smoking, we need to be cautious. The potential for a new wave of nicotine dependence among former smokers warrants further investigation. Establishing clear guidelines about vaping, particularly for former smokers, is essential to ensure it becomes part of a comprehensive smoking cessation strategy rather than a pathway to another form of addiction.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Professor Shahab, for shedding light on this complex issue. Your insights certainly highlight the need for continued research and public health awareness regarding vaping and its implications.
**Professor Shahab:** Thank you for having me. It’s crucial for us to continue discussing these trends and their potential impacts on health in order to inform better public health strategies moving forward.
