Vaping: What Parents Should Know

Vaping has become a widespread phenomenon, particularly among young people. Naturally, as a parent, you are going to be concerned about any new health trend that affects your people. If you know that your child already vapes or smokes, or are concerned that they may start, you should stay up-to-date with vaping research and health guidelines.

In the following guide, we will explain what vaping is, and its risks and effects, providing valuable information to help you better understand this growing trend.

What is vaping?

Vaping involves the inhalation of vapour produced by an electronic device called an e-cigarette or vape pen. These devices heat a liquid, commonly called e-liquid or vape juice, which often contains nicotine, flavourings, and other chemicals. There are various types of vaping devices, including disposable e-cigarettes, vape pens, and more advanced devices, each offering different features and levels of customisation.

Why are young people drawn to vaping?

There are several reasons why young people may be attracted to vaping. One significant factor is the appeal of flavoured e-liquids, which come in a wide range of appealing flavours, such as fruits and desserts. Compared to smoking, this is likely to be considerably more pleasant.

Additionally, it is generally accepted that vaping is a healthier alternative to smoking, which is a habit typically picked up by young people in the later years of schooling or during college. While vaping has its risks – and we explore these below – a study conducted by Public Health England found it to be 95% less harmful than tobacco.

It’s also important to tell your child that vaping is generally banned in schools and nowadays most schools have vape detectors fitted in places such as the toilets.

What are the health risks associated with vaping?

While it is often perceived as a safer alternative to smoking, vaping can lead to addiction, lung damage, and exposure to toxic chemicals. There are a few rare cases of vapers being hospitalised, but this has been attributed to vapes containing Vitamin E and THC, which are illegal and therefore not found in regulated vaping companies in the UK.

Due to vapes being a relatively new development, it is impossible to estimate the long-term effects of vaping, but without the most dangerous carcinogenic chemicals that are included in cigarettes – such as tar and carbon monoxide – it is expected that vape liquid is significantly less likely to cause cancer. However, it should be known that vape liquids do still contain harmful substances – though these are only a small amount compared to cigarettes.

With that in mind, vape liquid does typically contain nicotine – the addictive substance that can cause harm to those with cardiovascular issues. Nicotine has also been known to have a negative effect on people who combine it with sports and other activities that place a strain on the lungs. If your child has started vaping or is considering it, you should help them to understand that there are better and worse times to vape, and do your best to guide them through these.

What should you do if you are concerned about your child vaping?

Beyond being prepared to help your child in the case of a health emergency and being informed on the subject of vaping, you should do your best to understand why your child chooses to vape. Instead of trying to scare them with the risks of vaping, you should approach them with a willingness to listen and compassion. It is important for your child to be aware of the risks, but avoid talking to them in a manner that could be perceived as condescending.

If your child has switched to vaping to stop smoking, you should do your best to support them in this stressful endeavour. It is likely that they will understand the dangers of smoking and see the benefits of weaning themselves off of nicotine completely, so your support may encourage them to continue this.

What should I advise my 18+ child to avoid when looking for vaping products?

Younger people are often attracted to the affordability and ease of disposable vapes. This is the most likely way that your child may be introduced to vaping, helped by the stylish advertising and bright colours that disposable vapes are associated with.

However, disposable vapes present a number of issues. Firstly, disposable vapes are in enormous demand in the UK, resulting in companies producing largely untested products for sale, which can be easily acquired by young people. Many of these products are unauthorised by the Tobacco Goods Directive (TGD), meaning it is often unknown what is contained within.

Further from this, many tested disposable vapes contain high levels of nicotine, compared to the more customisable reusable options, which are typically safer and more reliable.

While there is currently a spike in the UK of under-18s using disposable vapes, it is important to remember that the legal age of sale is 18 for a reason. Furthermore, if your child had never smoked before, it is never recommended that they start vaping, as it is primarily a tool for smoking cessation.

Vaping liquid can be bought with different nicotine amounts that will affect the user in different ways. For a young person new to vaping – starting on something with a lower nicotine content will be better for their health – such as three to five milligrams, or even a nicotine-free liquid. However, if your child is switching from smoking, it may be better to start with something higher, such as 18 or 20 milligrams. When purchasing vape liquid, you should make sure to research the best retailers to buy from. A trusted vaping retailer will offer higher-quality vaping products that will ultimately be safer for your child.

It is essential for parents to be aware of the risks associated with vaping and take proactive steps to help their children understand the implications of vaping, and ensure that they can at least do so safely. By understanding the reasons why kids vape, parents can help protect their children from the predatory brands which seek to gain quick profit off of the vaping trend. Instead, do the research and purchase vaping products from retailers that are experts in the field.