We hear the term “fake news” a lot these days, somewhat even more to the thanks of Donald Trump but that’s a different story! The headlines that got us interested with the circulation of fake news is thanks to the press release by the UK Government. Within the release, they state that “over half of smokers believe nicotine vaping products are equally or more harmful than smoking”. One major factor creating this false fear is due to the US allowing substances within their vaping manufacturing that have been banned in the UK.
Within the sixth independent e-cigarette report carried out by Public Health England (PHE), they point out the growing concern in the increasing number of smokers who believe vaping is just as harmful than smoking. They state this is totally unacceptable and conclude that the use of regulated vaping products are far less harmful than smoking.
“Public Health England and the Royal College of Physicians estimate vaping is 95% less harmful than smoking.”
Within the press release, the Government stated “smokers should continue to be encouraged to try regulated nicotine vaping products along with other stop smoking aids and behavioural support”. Director of Health Improvement at PHE, Professor John Newton commented on the press release, stating “e-cigarettes are far less harmful than smoking, which causes 220 premature deaths a day in England. Our advice remains that for anyone who smokes tobacco, the most important thing is to stop smoking altogether and e-cigarettes can be an effective way to help smokers do that.” This is fully backed by the Chief Medical Officer for England, Professor Chris Whitty who points out “electronic cigarettes can help some people quit smoking and are a safer alternative”.
It’s a shame that false fears have and still currently prevent smokers from quitting through the use of a safer option such as vaping. Professor of Tobacco Addiction at King’s College, Professor Ann McNeill points out that it’s unfortunately very difficult for smokers to understand the numerous contradicting reports regarding the impacts of vaping vs. smoking. She goes on to state that “vaping has not undermined declines in adult smoking, and for youth, vaping is mainly concentrated in those who were already dabbling in cigarette smoking”.
As highlighted by Deborah Arnott, Chief Executive of Action on Smoking and Health (ASH), there are still currently over 6 million smokers within England which leads to premature death and disease regularly. “Vaping has helped many thousands of smokers quit to date. But many thousands more could benefit if they were not put off by the persistent, worsening and inaccurate beliefs the public hold about vaping.”
To conclude, we hope this news article possibly reassures you that vaping is still considered a regulated and effective means of stopping smoking across the board.
If you’re reading this as a smoker and want to take the first steps in stopping, we would like to firstly congratulate you, it’s a hard process and taking the first steps is always the most important. We provide numerous starter kits aimed towards people stopping smoking, take a look at start your adventure into a healthier life!
But for now, as always; Stay safe and speak to you soon,
