Vaping safer than smoking – so why are people struggling to quit e-cigarettes?
Despite being less harmful than smoking, many people find it difficult to quit vaping, with some even considering returning to cigarettes.Summary
Vaping has surpassed smoking as the most common form of nicotine consumption in the UK, yet a growing number of vapers are struggling to quit. While significantly less harmful than smoking due to the absence of combustion and toxic smoke byproducts, vaping is still addictive and poses its own health risks, particularly regarding long-term effects. Confusion surrounding the relative risks – with many young people believing vaping is as or more harmful than smoking – may contribute to the problem. Experts recommend a combination of approaches to quit, including nicotine replacement therapy, behavioral habit breaking, and psychological techniques like acceptance and commitment therapy. For young people, who are often vaping without a history of smoking, cessation efforts should focus on understanding the underlying reasons for vaping and providing support rather than simply advocating abstinence. Ultimately, avoiding both vaping and smoking is the most beneficial course of action.
(Source：The Guardian)
