Alarming new figures from the NHS show that more than 400 children and teenagers were admitted to hospital in England last year due to vaping-related illnesses. The data, obtained through a Freedom of Information request, highlights a worrying trend that health officials are calling a "ticking time bomb" for young people's health.
The Scale of the Problem
Between April 2022 and March 2023, hospitals recorded:
- 463 admissions of under-18s with vaping-related conditions
- 15 cases involving children under 10 years old
- A 50% increase in teen admissions compared to previous years
Health Risks for Young Vapers
Medical experts warn that vaping can cause:
- Severe lung damage
- Nicotine addiction
- Stunted brain development in adolescents
- Increased risk of transitioning to tobacco smoking
Dr. Sarah Jones, a paediatric respiratory specialist, told reporters: "We're seeing children coming in with vaping-induced breathing problems that would normally only appear in lifelong smokers."
Government Response
The findings come as ministers consider:
- Tighter restrictions on vape marketing
- New taxes on disposable e-cigarettes
- Stronger penalties for shops selling to minors
Health Secretary Victoria Atkins stated: "These figures are utterly unacceptable. We will take decisive action to protect children from the dangers of vaping."
What Parents Need to Know
Signs your child might be vaping include:
- Unfamiliar sweet smells
- Increased thirst
- Nosebleeds
- Unexplained coughing
Public health campaigns are being rolled out to help parents spot the signs and talk to their children about the risks.
