Yorkshire Cancer Research statement on the use of vaping products by children and young people

The recent review of evidence by University of York and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) on youth vaping clearly highlights the urgent need for tighter restrictions on the marketing of vaping products, which are currently being targeted at children and young people. It is vital that the Government passes the Tobacco & Vapes Bill as soon as possible. This legislation will gradually raise the minimum age of sale for tobacco until it becomes illegal for anyone to purchase cigarettes, and it will also enable stronger controls on vape marketing.

Yorkshire Cancer Research is calling for further measures to reduce the accessibility of vaping products to young people. These include moving vape products to behind-the-counter locations and implementing a ‘Challenge 25’ policy for all tobacco and vaping sales, where anyone who looks under 25 is asked for ID to ensure they’re over 18.

At the same time, Yorkshire Cancer Research estimates that there are more than 4,600 additional quitters each year in Yorkshire because of vaping products. It remains a crucial tool for smokers looking to quit, and it’s essential that it stays accessible for that purpose. If you don’t smoke, you shouldn’t vape.

Leah Holtam, Head of Cancer Insight at Yorkshire Cancer Research