Children as Young as 11 on Vaping Addiction Waitlist

A new NHS vaping addiction clinic, launched at Alder Hey Children's Hospital earlier this year, is already overwhelmed, with children as young as 11 on its waiting list. The pilot service, established due to a concerning rise in youth vaping in the Merseyside area, is currently at capacity, with at least 15 young individuals awaiting treatment.

Approximately 27 children are receiving care, including those aged 11 to 12 and 14 to 15. Professor Rachel Isba, leading the service, highlighted the well-documented negative impacts of nicotine on developing brains and stressed the need for more research into vaping's effects on under-16s. The clinic provides individualized support, incorporating nicotine replacement therapy, counseling, and strategies for peer pressure and behavioral change.

While the initial pilot funding has concluded, the service will continue until all on the waiting list are seen. Alder Hey is now exploring options for sustained funding to offer these vital vaping cessation services locally and potentially nationwide. This development occurs amidst a broader increase in vaping across the UK, with 5.6 million adults currently vaping, despite government efforts to curb addiction.