Northern Ireland

Warning about vaping as charity urges people to only use it as short-term attempt to quit smoking

Most smokers believe that e-cigarettes are equally or more harmful than cigarettes, which could be putting them off quit attempts, according to a new study
The NICHS said the long-term health implications and risks of vaping remain unclear (Nicholas.T.Ansell/PA)
By Suzanne McGonagle

A local health charity has urged people not to take up vaping other than in a short-term attempt to quit smoking.

The Northern Ireland Chest Heart & Stroke (NICHS) said it comes as more and more people are turning to e-cigarettes or vapes in a bid to stop smoking with figures revealing that smoking kills around 2,300 people each year in Northern Ireland.

Other startling statistics show that around 17% of the population in the north smoke.

To mark ‘No Smoking Month’ in March, the charity is not only reminding the public how detrimental smoking is, but also urging people not to take up vaping, other than in a short-term attempt to quit smoking.

The charity has previously spoke in particular of its concern about the number of young people choosing to vape and the misconceptions often associated with vaping.

Just last year it highlighted the story of a young girl from Belfast who was left seriously ill after vaping.

Sarah, pictured, and her mum Mary Griffin are raising awareness about the dangers of vaping
Sarah, pictured, and her mum Mary Griffin have been raising awareness about the dangers of vaping

Sarah Griffin (12) was admitted to intensive care and placed in an induced coma after taking ill from using vapes.

Fidelma Carter from NICHS said smoking is the “single greatest cause of preventable illness and premature death in Northern Ireland, robbing 10-15 years of healthy life”.

“We would encourage people to try and start their journey towards quitting smoking and better health this No Smoking Month,” she said.

“The fact smoking is the biggest cause of preventable illness and premature death will hopefully help persuade many people to kick this habit for good.”

Ms Carter added that it is recommended anyone turning to e-cigarettes or vapes to aid in stopping smoking should limit vape usage to no more than 12 weeks.

“The long-term health implications and risks of vaping remain unclear, in the same way they once were for tobacco use in the past,” she said.

“Therefore, if you opt for vaping to help you quit smoking, it’s best to use this for a short duration.

“Additionally, seek assistance from your local pharmacist or a specialised stop smoking service to kick the smoking habit and avoid developing a new long-term vaping habit which can be costly too.”