Have Vapers Finally Surpassed Smokers in Britain?

For the first time in Great Britain, the number of over-16s using vapes or e-cigarettes has surpassed those smoking traditional cigarettes, as reported by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). In 2024, approximately 5.4 million adults are estimated to use vapes either daily or occasionally, compared to 4.9 million who smoke cigarettes. This shift highlights a significant change in smoking habits among the UK population.

Last updated: 04 October 2024 (BST)

What’s happening now

The latest findings from the ONS indicate a pivotal moment in public health trends, as vaping has officially outstripped cigarette smoking among adults in Great Britain. The ONS's Opinions and Lifestyle Survey reveals that 10% of adults aged 16 and over currently use e-cigarettes, slightly exceeding the 9.1% of adults who smoke. This shift is significant not only for public health but also for the tobacco industry and regulatory bodies, as they adapt to changing consumption patterns.

Key takeaways

5.4 million adults in Great Britain use vapes daily or occasionally.
4.9 million adults smoke cigarettes, marking a decline in traditional smoking.
Daily vape usage is most common among adults aged 25-49.
74.2% of former smokers reported quitting in 2024, up from 70.3% in 2023.
New regulations are set to restrict tobacco sales to those born after 1 January 2009.

Timeline: how we got here

The decline of smoking and the rise of vaping can be traced through key milestones in public health policy and societal attitudes:

1970s: Less than 30% of adults had quit smoking; nearly half of the population were smokers.
2006-2007: Introduction of a ban on smoking in enclosed public places and workplaces.
2015: Ban on smoking in cars with children implemented.
2017: Plain cigarette packaging introduced to reduce tobacco appeal.
2024: 74.2% of former smokers report quitting; vaping use surpasses smoking in adults.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The ONS report for 2024 highlights a marked increase in vape usage, with 6.7% of individuals aged 16 and over using vapes daily, up from 5.9% in 2023. This translates to 5.4 million current vape users, a rise from 5.1 million the previous year. Additionally, daily use among 16 to 24-year-olds remains high but has declined from 15.8% to 13%.

What was already established

Prior to this report, trends indicated a steady decline in smoking rates, attributed to growing awareness of the health risks associated with tobacco. Vaping was viewed as a less harmful alternative, contributing to the increase in its adoption. The ONS had previously documented these shifts, but the 2024 data marks a significant turning point.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The rise in vaping usage has implications for household health and spending. While vaping is often marketed as a less harmful alternative, it raises concerns about the long-term health effects, particularly among younger users. Additionally, as traditional smoking rates decline, the tobacco industry may face economic challenges, potentially impacting jobs related to tobacco production and sales.

Businesses and jobs

With the increase in vaping, businesses in the tobacco and vaping sectors are likely to adapt their strategies. The shift may encourage the development of new products and marketing strategies aimed at capturing the growing vape market. Companies may also need to navigate the changing regulatory landscape, particularly with new laws concerning the packaging and sale of vaping products.

Policy and regulation

Current legislation in progress aims to restrict tobacco sales to individuals born after 1 January 2009, indicating a long-term strategy to phase out smoking. Additionally, tightening regulations on vape packaging and presentation reflects growing concerns about the appeal of these products to younger audiences. Ongoing debates in parliament around these issues will shape the future of tobacco and vaping in the UK.

Numbers that matter

5.4 million: Estimated number of adults using vapes in Great Britain.
4.9 million: Estimated number of adults still smoking cigarettes.
10%: Percentage of adults aged 16 and over using e-cigarettes.
74.2%: Percentage of adults who have successfully quit smoking in 2024.
6.7%: Percentage of individuals using vapes daily in 2024.

Definitions and jargon buster

E-cigarette: A device that allows users to inhale vapour containing nicotine and flavouring, without burning tobacco.
Vaping: The act of inhaling vapour produced by e-cigarettes or similar devices.
ONS: Office for National Statistics, the executive office of the UK Statistics Authority responsible for collecting and publishing statistics.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Individuals considering switching from smoking to vaping should stay informed about the latest health information and guidelines. It may be beneficial to consult healthcare professionals regarding the best practices for transitioning to vaping.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Monitor government regulations and public health recommendations as new policies regarding vaping and tobacco are implemented. This could influence the availability of products and public health campaigns aimed at reducing smoking rates further.

Signals to watch

Updates on legislative changes affecting tobacco and vaping sales.
Trends in public health data regarding smoking and vaping habits.
Shifts in consumer behaviour as new products are introduced to the market.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about the health impacts of vaping versus smoking.
Consider seeking support when quitting smoking or transitioning to vaping.
Be aware of the regulations regarding vaping products in your area.

Don’t

Assume that vaping is completely risk-free; research and understand potential health implications.
Ignore the age restrictions and regulations around vaping products.
Overlook the importance of responsible disposal of vaping products.

Checklist

Assess your current smoking habits and consider setting a quit date.
Research reputable vaping products if considering a switch.
Consult with healthcare professionals about your options.
Stay updated on local laws regarding vaping and tobacco use.
Monitor your health and well-being as you make changes to your smoking or vaping habits.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While vaping is seen as a safer alternative to smoking, the long-term health effects are still not fully understood. Ongoing research continues to evaluate the potential risks associated with vaping, particularly for young users. Additionally, the regulatory landscape is evolving, and further changes to vaping laws could impact availability and usage patterns. It is crucial to approach vaping with caution and remain informed about emerging health data.

Bottom line

The shift from smoking to vaping represents a significant change in public health in Great Britain, with vaping now being the more popular option among adults. As regulations tighten and public health campaigns evolve, it will be essential for individuals to stay informed about their choices regarding tobacco and vaping. Understanding the implications of these trends can help guide personal decisions and promote healthier lifestyles.

FAQs

What percentage of adults in the UK use vapes?

Approximately 10% of adults aged 16 and over in the UK currently use e-cigarettes, according to the latest ONS survey.

Is vaping safer than smoking cigarettes?

Yes, vaping poses a smaller fraction of the risks associated with smoking cigarettes, as traditional smoking releases thousands of harmful chemicals.

What age restrictions are there for buying tobacco in the UK?

New legislation will prevent anyone born on or after 1 January 2009 from legally purchasing tobacco products in the UK.