Vaping linked to breathing problems and future smoking in children, major review finds

Vaping among children and teenagers is linked to respiratory problems, nicotine dependence and an increased likelihood of later taking up cigarette smoking, according to a major review of the available evidence.

The systematic review, published in the BMJ journal Archives of Disease in Childhood, examined the impact of vaping on young people aged 12 to 19. Researchers screened more than 14,000 published articles, assessed 325 full-text studies and ultimately synthesised evidence from 81 studies.

Researchers found consistent evidence linking vaping with poorer respiratory health in young people. Those who vaped were more likely to experience symptoms including coughing, wheezing and bronchitis-like symptoms, as well as exacerbations of asthma.

The review also identified evidence of wider potential health effects. Vaping was associated with poorer oral and dental health, while researchers reported links with mental health outcomes including anxiety and depression. Emerging evidence also pointed towards possible effects on sleep, allergies and eye health, although researchers stressed that considerably more work is needed to understand the longer-term consequences.

One of the most significant findings concerned the relationship between vaping and future tobacco use. Longitudinal evidence showed that young people who vape are substantially more likely to subsequently begin smoking cigarettes.

Professor Will Carroll, co-author of the review, warned that vaping should not be regarded as a harmless part of adolescence, pointing to evidence around respiratory symptoms, nicotine dependence and subsequent cigarette smoking.

The findings come amid continuing concern about the popularity of vaping among young people. Almost one in five 11 to 17-year-olds in Britain has tried vaping, according to figures cited alongside the research.

The review’s authors and leading paediatricians have called for stronger measures to reduce the appeal of vaping products to children, including tighter controls around flavours.

The findings arrive as the UK begins implementing its new Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026, which received Royal Assent in April. The legislation includes powers to restrict vape packaging, branding and displays, alongside a ban on vape advertising and sponsorship, as part of wider efforts to protect children from nicotine addiction.

Researchers stressed that vaping remains relatively new and its full long-term impact on children is not yet known. However, the emerging evidence, they said, provides growing cause for concern about its effects on young people’s health.

Source: The BMJ / Archives of Disease in Childhood

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