The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health has completed a systematic review of approximately 81 studies examining the effects of vaping on children and young people. The review, published in Archives of Disease in Childhood, concludes that vaping poses multiple health risks and should not be considered a benign activity during adolescence.
The analysis identified associations between vaping and various health concerns, including respiratory symptoms such as wheezing and coughing, dental and oral health problems, sleep disturbances, mental health issues, and eye-related symptoms. The research also found evidence of harm in infants born to mothers who used vaping products during pregnancy. Additionally, the review documented clear links between vaping and nicotine dependence, as well as progression to conventional cigarette smoking.
The college is advocating for enhanced government intervention beyond current proposals. While the government launched a 12-week consultation in July regarding vape packaging, appearance, and retail display, the RCPCH recommends additional measures, particularly limiting the variety of available flavors. Current proposals would restrict branding and require plain packaging similar to tobacco products, while removing vapes from open display in retail settings. The recommendations follow the recent passage of the Tobacco and Vapes Act, which establishes a lifelong purchasing ban on cigarettes for individuals born after January 1, 2009.
According to polling data from the charity Action on Smoking and Health, nearly one in five young people aged 11 to 17 in Britain have experimented with vaping. Health organizations remain divided on messaging, with some emphasizing vaping’s reduced harm compared to smoking for current smokers attempting to quit, while stressing that non-smokers and children should avoid the products entirely. Government health officials reiterated that children should not vape and cited the evidence as demonstrating associated risks.
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