The British Medical Association (BMA) has called for a complete ban on the manufacture and sale of disposable vapes, citing their harmful impact on children, young people, and the environment.
In its report titled "Taking Our Breath Away: Why We Need Stronger Regulation of Vapes," the BMA outlines six key recommendations to address what it describes as a growing epidemic of vape use in the UK. These include banning the commercial sale of disposable vapes, prohibiting non-tobacco flavored vapes, and imposing restrictions on the colors and imagery used on vaping devices (see box for full details).
The report notes that while the previous government introduced a Tobacco and Vapes Bill to regulate vape sales, it was not carried forward into the new parliamentary session.
Although the Labour government has reintroduced a bill to tackle smoking and youth vaping, announced in the King’s Speech, the specific measures it will include have yet to be detailed.
The BMA’s report highlights the many unknowns surrounding vaping, particularly its effects on physical health, and calls for more data on cardiovascular disease and the long-term impact on the lungs, heart, and brain.
The report states: “Until we have that information, we must ensure that the public, especially children and young people, are adequately protected from the risks of inappropriate vape use. Therefore, stricter regulations must be implemented to reduce the appeal, visibility, accessibility, and availability of vapes, alongside efforts to raise awareness of the dangers these products pose.”
It adds: “It is encouraging that the UK Government has recognized this issue and plans to introduce legislation to address it. However, it is crucial that any proposed regulations are based on solid evidence, ensuring they are as effective as possible and implemented without delay.”
