Major review finds clear link between vaping and respiratory problems in young people

A major review into the impacts of vaping on children and young people has found clear links between vaping and respiratory health problems, as well as strong evidence that young people who vape are more likely to go on to smoke cigarettes. 

The review, led by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH), was co-authored by Professor Will Carroll, Honorary Professor of Child Health at Keele, and Dr Fran Gilchrist, Reader and Honorary Consultant in Paediatric Respiratory Medicine, both of whom are also paediatric consultants at University Hospitals of North Midlands (UHNM) NHS Trust. 

The review examined more than 14,000 published articles, assessed 325 full-text studies and brought together evidence from 81 studies, and found that vaping has become much more common among children and young people over the past decade, with rates of regular use rising sharply.  

It also found that young people who vape are more likely to experience breathing problems, including coughs, wheezing, bronchitis symptoms and asthma attacks, and are more likely to go on to smoke cigarettes. 

Researchers also identified possible links between vaping and other health problems, including poor oral health, anxiety and depression. They found new evidence suggesting vaping could also affect sleep, eye health and allergies, as well as pose risks to babies exposed to nicotine during pregnancy. 

Professor Carroll said: "Vaping should not be seen as a harmless part of growing up. The evidence shows clear links with respiratory symptoms, nicotine dependence and subsequent cigarette smoking, while concerns about wider impacts on young people's health continue to grow. 

“We must act to make vaping less attractive and accessible to children. As stated in our recent State of Child Health report, this should include limiting flavours, bringing packaging into line with tobacco products and restricting how vaping products are displayed."