Young people who start vaping risk developing breathing problems and going on to smoke cigarettes, children’s doctors have warned. A comprehensive review by the Royal College of Child and Paediatrics Health found consistent links between child vaping and poor respiratory health, such as coughing, wheezing, bronchitis symptoms, and asthma exacerbations.
The review, published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood, also indicated that vapes act as a gateway to smoking cigarettes. It examined 14,000 published articles and 81 studies.
Professor Will Carroll, a co-author of the review, stated that vaping should not be seen as a harmless part of growing up, citing clear links with respiratory symptoms, nicotine dependence, and subsequent cigarette smoking. He urged the government to implement new measures from the Tobacco and Vapes Act, including plain packaging and restrictions on vape flavour names.
The review also identified evidence linking vaping to poor oral and dental health, including inflammation, ulcers, and dry mouths, as well as negative mental health outcomes such such as anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. Emerging evidence suggests potential impacts on sleep, eye health, allergies, and adverse outcomes for infants exposed to nicotine during pregnancy.
Dr Mike McKean, RCPCH vice-president for policy, noted that while much is still unknown about the long-term impact of vaping due to it being a relatively new product, a clear and concerning picture is emerging. He stressed the need for continued research and monitoring.