Smokers more likely to quit by vaping than other alternatives, study finds
A Cochrane review found vaping increases quit rates compared to nicotine gum or patches, with 61% higher odds of success.Summary
A comprehensive Cochrane Review analysed 80 studies involving almost 30,000 people and found that using vapes significantly increased the chances of quitting smoking. Smokers who used nicotine‑containing e‑cigarettes were 61% more likely to succeed after six months than those using nicotine‑replacement therapy such as gum or patches. Nicotine‑filled vapes outperformed those without nicotine, and combining vaping with behavioural support further improved outcomes. While vaping is not risk‑free, experts say it is less harmful than smoking, and adverse events reported in the studies were low. However, they warned that unregulated devices can be dangerous and urged smokers to use only products tested and approved by national regulators such as the UK’s MHRA. The findings reinforce the importance of offering a broad range of cessation options, including legal vapes, and support the implementation of policies like the Tobacco and Vapes Act to help move toward a smoke‑free future.
(Source：The Independent)
