A new study from the University of Bristol reveals young adults are more likely to switch from smoking to vaping. This switch happens if they recognize vaping’s reduced harm. Yet, many young people mistakenly believe that vaping is as harmful or even worse than smoking.
The study, published in Nicotine and Alcohol Research, highlights the misperceptions young adults have about the risks of vaping. These misunderstandings could be hindering their transition to less harmful alternatives.
VAPING AWARENESS AND SMOKING CESSATION
Researchers from Brighton and Sussex Medical School led the study. It followed young adults who were smoking at the age of 23 or 24. The research discovered that individuals who saw vaping as less harmful than smoking were more likely to switch to vaping. This change occurred six years later.
Dr. Katherine East, the lead author of the study, emphasized the misinformation that clouds public understanding of vaping. “There is a lot of misinformation circulating that vaping is as bad as smoking or even worse,” said Dr. East. “While vaping is not without risks, the evidence is clear. Vaping is much less harmful than smoking. It can help people successfully quit smoking.”
GROWING MISINFORMATION DETERRING YOUNG ADULTS FROM SWITCHING
The study uncovered troubling trends. In 2024, 85% of adults in England who smoked wrongly believed that vaping was just as harmful as smoking. Some even thought it was more harmful. This belief increased from 59% in 2014. This misconception is growing. It could be a major barrier to young adults switching to vaping. Vaping is considered a less harmful alternative.
INTERVENTIONS NEEDED TO COMBAT VAPING MISPERCEPTIONS
Dr. Jasmine Khouja, Senior Research Associate at the University of Bristol and senior author of the study, stressed the need for interventions. “The study highlights the need for interventions to improve the pervasive misperceptions about vaping among smokers,” she said. “These beliefs could be stopping some people from switching from smoking to vaping as a less harmful alternative.”
IMPORTANCE OF CLEAR COMMUNICATION ON VAPING’S RISKS
Professor Ann McNeill, co-author of the study and Professor of Tobacco Addiction at King’s College London, echoed the need for clearer communication. “Smoking is uniquely deadly and will kill one in two regular smokers,” she said. “Yet, most people who smoke are unaware that vaping is less harmful. It can help them to stop smoking completely.”
VAPING AS A TOOL FOR QUITTING SMOKING
While vaping is not risk-free, it offers a far safer alternative for smokers looking to quit. The study highlights the need to educate smokers about vaping’s relative risks. Switching could significantly reduce their chances of developing smoking-related diseases.
