The UK government has announced a £62 million ($78 million) study to examine the long-term effects of vaping, marking one of the most extensive research efforts to date.
Funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the decade-long study will track 100,000 people aged 8 to 18, collecting data on their behavior, biology, and overall well-being. Researchers aim to better understand the impact of vaping, particularly on young children.
While vaping is considered less harmful than smoking, concerns remain over its nicotine content and potential effects on developing brains. The study is expected to provide critical insights into its long-term health risks.
Additionally, the UK government is advancing the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, a sweeping measure aimed at reducing smoking and youth vaping. Key provisions include banning tobacco sales to anyone born on or after January 1, 2009, restricting vape advertising, banning vape vending machines, and regulating packaging.
Alongside the bill, the government is conducting a landmark study tracking 100,000 people over 10 years to better understand vaping’s long-term effects.
Ashley Dalton, Minister for Public Health and Prevention, stated: “We know that vaping can be a useful tool to quit smoking, but it’s crucial we have clear evidence on the long-term health harms, especially for young people.”
Asthma + Lung UK chief Sarah Sleet expressed deep concern over the rising number of non-smokers and children taking up vaping, calling it “extremely worrying.”
“The long-term effects of vaping on lung health remain unknown, making research into its impact on young people essential,” she said.
“It is already established that vaping can cause airway inflammation, and individuals with asthma have reported that vapes can trigger their symptoms.
“Vaping may pose a risk to developing lungs, while nicotine exposure—also present in vapes—can harm brain development. This is why preventing young people from taking up vaping is critical.”
Meanwhile, Professor Lucy Chappell emphasized the need for strong scientific evidence to understand vaping’s health effects, media reports. “By investing in vital research like this, we provide young people, parents, and policymakers with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions and protect long-term health,” she said.
