What’s the problem with vaping?

There is an increasing feeling amongst young people that vaping is cool and glamorous and can’t be as bad as smoking; so surely it must be ok to try? Recent reports highlight this rapidly increasing problem and our local knowledge from young people, schools and youth organisations reflects this. ​​​​​​​

Using research from the University of Southampton, which reveals the dangers in assuming vaping is a healthier habit than cigarette smoking, we wanted to co-create with young people a set of resources for use in schools, colleges and youth settings.

These resources highlight the negative consequences of vaping, and activate young people’s sense of social justice by spotlighting the marketing tactics being used.

Working with members of our Youth Panel we began by carrying out focus groups with groups of young people, asking the question ‘What’s the problem with vaping?’ We discussed their thoughts, opinions, and ideas around vaping, solutions to educate and inform and signposting for young people who want to stop. Using the feedback from the focus groups and input from staff at the Faculty of Medicine and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, who provided clinical and research expertise, the resources were created by young people for young people.