The “vaping epidemic” that is overtaking in the UK especially amongst the youngsters, has been drawn to the attention of the British Medical Association (BMA). According to reports, for over the past ten years the usage of vaping devices has increased by almost six times amongst young people and children. Renowned Physicians are requesting the British government to act immediately in response to this excessive usage of vape amongst the youngsters.
What is vape?
Inhaling the gasses produced by an electronic device known as a vape pen or e-cigarette — is known as vaping. The device heats a liquid that usually has flavoring and nicotine and other chemicals. Since nicotine is so addictive; vaping is a difficult habit to quit. It forces the habit into an addiction since it causes the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure.
Like other sources of smoking; vaping also has its health hazards which includes cardiovascular problems, lung damage and maybe long term impacts that are currently being studied. Moreover, inhaling the chemicals found in vape or e-cigarettes liquid’s is hazardous and causes respiratory problems and other health risks.
The BMA has called out for an extensive plan to tackle the situation. It also includes ban of all flavored disposable e-cigarettes except tobacco. The different flavors are the main reason why vape is so popular amongst the youngsters hence this move will help in tackling the addiction problems in the youth.The report emphasizes the importance of taking strict action against this trend to protect children from this addiction and protect them from other health risks.
Some of the recommendation of BMA includes:-
– Banning disposable vapes and non-tobacco flavors
– Restricting packaging and device design to prevent appealing to youth
– Curbing advertising and marketing efforts
– Keeping vapes behind retail counters and out of sight
– Launching government education campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of vaping
The Department of Health and Social Care have acknowledged the problem by calling out the marketing of vapes to children and young people “utterly unacceptable”. Legislation is in the process to control flavors, packaging and display in shops. However the newly elected Labour government needs to explain how they plan to tackle this growing issue.
Professor David Stain, the chair of the British Medical Association’s scientific board acknowledges the situation. He said that, “There is no denying we are living in a vaping epidemic.” Ten percent of adult vaping and a more than sixfold rise among kids between the ages of 11 and 17. The issue needs to be tackled as soon as possible. The BMA report serves as a blueprint for the important protocols. Those should be followed to handle this public health emergency and ensure a safer future for the youth.
