Vape firms slammed for ‘pumping out festive flavours’ to entice kids

England’s top doctor has slammed vape companies for “pumping out Christmas deals and festive flavours” to entice youngsters as rising numbers suffer serious health effects.

Provisional NHS data shows 280 people were admitted to hospital with vaping-related disorders in the seven months to the end of October – including 31 aged 19 and under.

NHS national medical director Professor Sir Stephen Powis said: “More than 30 children and young people being admitted to hospital over seven months for conditions linked to vaping, such as breathlessness and potential lung damage, is simply alarming.

“With vape companies pumping out Christmas deals and festive flavours, like Christmas pudding, candy cane, mince pies or gingerbread, they are likely to be appealing to younger age groups, and despite websites often stating vapes are for over 18s, it is possible to purchase them with little to no checks.”

Hospital admissions for vaping-related disorders are rising at an alarming rate. There were 51 admissions recorded among children and teenagers in 2023-24, up from just 11 in 2021-22.

Across all age groups a total of 317 people needed hospital care in the year to March.

A recent NHS report found that in 2023, one in four pupils aged 11 to 15 had tried vaping and 9% were regular e-cigarette users.

Another survey by Action on Smoking and Health earlier this year found young people were increasingly being exposed to advertising for vapes.

Some 72% of 11 to 17-year-olds said they had seen vape promotions, including 55% in shops and 29% online.

Sir Stephen added: “While vapes can be a useful tool to help adults quit smoking, they should not be used by children and under 18s.

“There’s nothing joyful or fun about the serious effect they can have on young people’s health as well as the potential long-term consequences.

“We urge online retailers to ensure they have proper checks in places, including age verification, to avoid young people purchasing festive flavoured vapes over the festive period.”