In light of an alarming trend of youth vaping, the UK government will implement a ban on disposable vapes as early as next week. This decision follows growing concerns that these disposable e-cigarettes, often flavoured with sweet and fruity tastes, are enticing underage consumers.
UK Science Minister Michelle Donelan expressed the government’s unease with the rising number of young individuals who have never smoked, turning to vaping. She described the trend as “very worrying” and highlighted the need for swift action to address the issue. The concern is that the appealing flavours in single-use vapes have made these products particularly attractive to adolescents, potentially exposing them to the risks associated with vaping.
The UK is not alone in its efforts to address this growing public health concern. Around the world, other countries have taken similar measures. Australia, for instance, has banned all vaping without a prescription, while Germany has restricted flavoured e-cigarettes. France, too, is in the process of phasing out disposable e-cigarettes.
In Malta, we have also seen a considerably-growing trend of coloured e-cigarettes amongst youth, with no strict bans or regulations yet set locally.
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Cover Photo Source: Euronews / The Sun
