A recent survey by Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) revealed that the number of vapers in Great Britain has risen to 3 million, meaning the amount of e-cigarette users in the UK has quadrupled in the last 6 years!
Changing Perceptions
The survey found that more and more people are becoming aware that e-cigarettes are a safer alternative to smoking.
This can be somewhat accredited to the acceptance and support that has been shown in recent years by health organisations and stop smoking clinics, which has helped appease peoples concerns regarding the safety and effectiveness of vaping as an alternative to smoking.
The studies and research that have been carried out and published have helped provide reliable positive evidence for those considering vaping as an option and allowed organisations like ASH to bring vaping to the forefront.
The Road Ahead
Although the research published by ASH shows that the vast majority of people now understand that e-cigarettes are 95% safer than traditional cigarettes, approximately 22% of smokers still falsely believe vaping to be as bad if not worse for your health, a believe that is held by 1 in 4 members of the general public.
Deborah Arnott, the Chief Executive of Action on Smoking and Health stated:
"UK policy is on the right track, with thousands of smokers making the switch to vaping and improving their health and little sign of non-smokers taking up vaping. But even more smokers could benefit if e-cigarettes were licensed as medicines and available on prescription."
A recent report by MPs discussed the need to relax the rules surrounding vaping, and that their use on public transport is something that should be considered as a way to encourage people the make the switch. The possibility of making e-cigarettes available on prescription could also do a lot to inspire a change in public opinion in those who believe vaping to be a more harmful option and inspire more smokers to make the switch to a healthier lifestyle.
These changes could also make a difference for the vaping industry, by relaxing the laws for the advertising of vape products and allowing vape shops to grow their customer base and work more closely with their local health organisations and stop smoking clinics.
If you are interested in finding out more about e-cigarettes and whether they could be a viable stop smoking option for you, or even if you would just like to learn what makes e-cigarettes and e-liquids a safer alternative, check out our blog for lots of information and up to date news.
Alternatively, pop in to your local Evapo store and speak to a member of staff, of check out our online vape shop to see our full range of products.
Sources:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-45513762
