UK to Distribute 1 Million Complimentary Vapes, Intensifies Efforts Against Youth Vaping

For the first time ever, a nationwide vape program will be provided to one million smokers in England by the United Kingdom. British Health Minister Neil O'Brien made the announcement about the quit-smoking program today.

Free vape starting kits will be distributed to smokers who choose to stop, coupled with behavioral help. Local trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of such "swap to stop" programs. O'Brien described the launch of the nationwide campaign as taking place in "deprived neighborhoods," with an emphasis on "settings such as job centers, homeless centers, and social housing providers." Financial incentives are another feature of the strategy for pregnant women who give up smoking.

The actions are a component of the government's 2030 "smokefree" goal. A population that has a smoking prevalence of 5% or less is considered "smokefree." There are 5.4 million smokers in England, according to the government.

According to study, "smokers who use a vape every day are three times more likely to quit smoking, interestingly, even if they didn't actually intend to quit," according to O'Brien, who stated that vaping is shown to assist individuals quit smoking.

It is challenging to refute such persistent misconceptions regarding, for instance, "popcorn lung," but if the NHS is providing vape pens to expectant mothers, it sends a strong signal not only in the UK but also globally. /5

• Christopher Snowdon

O'Brien's statement was undoubtedly heavy on the drawbacks, especially coming from a health minister who acknowledges the advantages of supporting vaping. Evidently, he didn't think he could promote vaping in the well-known vape-friendly UK—even as a way to stop smoking—without also giving a reference to those who advocate for limitations on the range and accessibility of vape products.

The government will introduce stricter enforcement efforts to deter teenage vaping in addition to the smoking cessation strategy. These tactics will include the formation of "flying squads" that will target merchants that sell to minors. The enforcement strategy will also target the importation of illegal goods, and customs and border agents will receive more resources.

O’Brien also announced a public consultation on youth vaping , asking for evidence on a variety of topics, including product appearance and characteristics, how marketing may attract children, the role of social media in vaping uptake, and environmental impacts of vaping with an emphasis on disposable vapes. The consultation will be open for the next eight weeks.

In his speech, O’Brien sounded like someone already convinced that “disposable vapes marketed to kids with bright colours, or low prices, or cartoon characters or child-friendly flavours” is a major issue, rather than someone seeking evidence. The minister also called out Elf Bar by name, citing that company’s recent compliance issues.

In general, British vaping organizations expressed excitement in response to the statements. The New Nicotine Alliance (NNA), a consumer advocacy group, applauded the "sensible" enforcement actions but caution was advised. "Advocates have the opportunity to advance our own ideas on how to tackle underage sales which do not reduce appeal and access for adults who currently smoke," the NNA stated in reference to the consultation.

"We hope that instead of resorting to heavy-handed bans and restrictions which are often counterproductive, the government will use the consultation process to identify other enlightened measures for helping people to quit smoking," the NNA continued.