Doctors warn young vapers face breathing problems, risk of smoking

Young people who start vaping face significant health risks, including breathing problems and an increased likelihood of transitioning to smoking cigarettes, according to a comprehensive review by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH).

The review, which analyzed 81 studies, consistently links child vaping to poor respiratory health, such as coughing, wheezing, and bronchitis symptoms. It also found that vapes can act as a gateway to smoking traditional cigarettes.

Professor Will Carroll, a co-author of the review, stated that vaping should not be considered harmless for young people, citing clear links to respiratory symptoms, nicotine dependence, and subsequent cigarette smoking. He urged the government to swiftly implement measures announced under the Tobacco and Vapes Act, which include plain packaging, relocating vapes to less visible areas in shops, and restricting appealing flavour names.

Carroll also called for further action, such as limiting the variety of available flavours. An estimated one in five 11-17-year-olds in Britain have tried vaping.

The RCPCH review also identified evidence connecting vaping to poor oral and dental health, as well as negative mental health outcomes. Dr Mike McKean, RCPCH vice-president for policy, highlighted that as vaping is a relatively new product, its long-term impact on children remains largely unknown, but a concerning picture is emerging.

Andrew McCracken of Asthma + Lung UK called for more research and a faster policy response to protect children's lungs. Hazel Cheeseman of Action on Smoking and Health stressed the importance of strong controls on marketing and promotion to reduce youth vaping.