Number of UK smokers drops to lowest level on record, as vaping becomes more popular
The number of smokers in the UK has dropped to the lowest level on record. Figures suggest that as smoking cigarettes has become less common, vaping has become more popular.
Data from the Office for National Statistics shows that 13.3% of over 18s smoked cigarettes in 2021. This is a decrease of 0.7% since 2020. The first ONS record dates back to 2011 when 20.2% of adults smoked cigarettes.
Smoking rates have fallen in the UK, but vaping has become more common, particularly among young people. In 2021, 7.7% of over 16s used e-cigarettes compared to 6.4% of people in 2020.
Vaping is most common among smokers and ex-smokers. Around 25% of smokers and 15% of ex-smokers use e-cigarettes. Only 1.5% of people who vape have never smoked before.
The ONS believes that the uptick in vaping correlates with the decrease in smoking cigarettes. Many people are switching to e-cigarettes from cigarettes to try to cut down and limit their intake of nicotine and other chemicals found in conventional cigarettes. Vaping is often recommended as a tool for quitting smoking and it can help smokers to transition from smoking regularly to giving up completely.
Vaping is considered less harmful than smoking, but a recent study from the US suggested that it can increase the risk of dental cavities. Vapers are encouraged to maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular check-ups to reduce the risk of decay.
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