Smoking and Vaping

Most adults do not smoke. 

But when people do start smoking or vaping, they typically get addicted. This is because nicotine is one of the most addictive substances in the world.

Crucial: It is illegal to purchase tobacco or vapes if you are under 18, or to buy them for a person aged under 18. Trading Standards investigates anyone selling tobacco or vape products to underage people and can close down businesses that do. 

Smoking is harmful

Smoking harms your health in many ways and makes you more likely to get serious diseases like diabetes, heart disease or dementia.  

Smoking also:

• Harms your lungs and ability to breathe
• Releases cancer causing chemicals
• Damages circulation and senses, including sight

Vape products are generally felt to be a safer option for adults who already smoke. But for younger people who do not smoke, vaping is not a safe choice. Nobody knows exactly how serious the health risks are yet. But it is safer not to smoke or vape.  

Take action: Better Health have lots of information for young people about vaping. 

Smoking alternatives are risky

Options like e-cigarettes and vaping are often used to support quitting. But these options are also addictive. The safest option is not to smoke or vape.

Other alternatives like nicotine pouches, shisha, and heated tobacco products are also habit forming, even if they do not involve smoking, and can cause other health problems.

Support with quitting

It is normal for people to stop smoking, vaping or using other tobacco-related products. This is often called quitting. Some do it for health reasons, to save money or to support changes in their life. 

Most people are able to stop on their own, but some need more help. 

Because the benefits of quitting smoking are so big, there is lots of support available to help you quit:

You can:

1. Talk to your School/ College Health Nurse
2. Contact Stop for Life Oxfordshire
3. Download the free NHS Quit Smoking app

You can also to talk any pharmacist or ask your GP for advice, medication and support on how to quit. 

Crucial: If someone gives you cigarettes or encourages you to smoke or vape, they are harming you, and may be trying to exploit you.