Vaping Addiction: Quitting's Harder Than You Think

Vaping has become the dominant form of nicotine consumption in Great Britain, with recent figures indicating 5.4 million adults now vape, surpassing the 4.9 million who smoke. This shift is accompanied by a growing number of individuals seeking to quit or reduce their vaping, often discovering it's more challenging than anticipated. Concerns are also rising among public health experts regarding the potential underestimation of vaping risks, which could inadvertently foster a new generation of nicotine users.

Experts emphasize that vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking due to the absence of combustion, which releases toxic substances like tar and carbon monoxide. While vaping involves inhaling heated chemicals, current evidence suggests a lower risk profile compared to cigarettes. However, long-term effects remain largely unknown, and vaping still poses risks to lung health. Psychological dependence, where vaping becomes tied to routines and emotions, alongside nicotine's addictive nature, contributes to the difficulty of quitting.

Research into effective quitting strategies is ongoing. Early evidence suggests text-message support and medication like varenicline may aid cessation. Acceptance and commitment therapy, which helps individuals manage cravings, is also being explored. For young people, for whom vaping is often a first exposure to nicotine, cessation efforts focus on understanding underlying reasons for use. Experts stress that avoiding cigarettes entirely is paramount, and setbacks are a normal part of the quitting process.