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Some people turn to vaping as a tool to quit smoking, while others—particularly young people—are drawn to it recreationally. While vaping may be 95% less harmful than smoking, it is not without risks, especially for young people and non-smokers.
Vaping involves using an electronic device, often called an e-cigarette or vape, to inhale vapour created by heating a liquid. This liquid usually contains nicotine, flavourings, and other substances. Unlike cigarettes, vapes don’t burn tobacco, so they avoid harmful chemicals like tar and carbon monoxide.
Although vaping can help people quit smoking, it’s important to note that it is not risk-free, particularly for young people whose brains are still developing.
Vaping is a complex topic. On one hand, it offers smokers a safer alternative and a path to quitting; on the other, the rise in youth vaping and the availability of illegal products pose serious concerns. Recent surveys in Wales highlight that:
Vaping is not harmless, and its increasing use—especially among young people—raises significant health, social, and economic concerns.
High nicotine levels in vapes can lead to addiction, particularly for young users.
Illegal vapes may contain unregulated, harmful substances, risking long-term health damage.
Regular vaping among young people can affect brain development, leading to concentration and behavioural issues.
While vaping can help smokers quit, evidence suggests it may also act as a gateway to smoking for young people, normalising the behaviour.
The accessibility of cheap illegal vapes undermines public health efforts and disproportionately affects communities already struggling with health inequalities.
Vaping is estimated to be 95% less harmful than smoking, helping many adult smokers quit.
Adult vapers should gradually reduce nicotine levels to avoid prolonged dependency.
You can play a vital role in protecting your community. If you spot illegal vapes being sold, report them through our No Ifs. No Butts. website.
Talk to young people about the risks of vaping, and support friends and family trying to quit smoking or vaping for good. Together, we can create a healthier, safer Wales.
Over half of regular youth vapers in Wales are using untested, illegal products.
25% of schoolchildren in Wales have tried vaping. Read our insights on protecting young people.
E-cigarettes are 95% less harmful than smoking and have become the UK’s most popular smoking cessation aid.
While UK studies suggest limited uptake among non-smokers, US data shows concerns about e-cigarettes as a potential gateway to smoking.
The Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) sets out regulations to improve product safety and ensure consumers are informed about the risks of vaping. Key elements include:
For more detailed information, visit MHRA Guidance.
