Confusion Causing Loss Of Trust In Vapes Among Smokers

A recent study has shown that many smokers are losing trust in vaping as a method to quit smoking. The study, conducted by One Poll and commissioned by SMOORE, surveyed 2,000 smokers and found that 29% only trust vaping a little while 13% do not trust it whatsoever. The report discovered that the diminishing trust is due to several factors, including a lack of independent long-term clinical research showing that vaping is less harmful than smoking. Additionally, 31% of respondents are concerned about the harm profile of different vape products, as there is currently a lack of information. The inconsistency of government attitudes towards vaping across the world and the negative reports and studies that smokers come across also contribute to the lack of trust.

Dr. Chenxing Pei, a senior aerosol engineer at the SMOORE Centre for Analysis, Testing, and Safety Assessment, claims a lack of information is responsible for this loss of trust among smokers. In order to make informed decisions about switching to vaping, smokers need all the information possible. Vaping needs to be viewed as a credible way to quit smoking, and urgent efforts must be made to ensure smokers trust these products to have the desired impact.

The study also found that 68% of smokers are confused about which products are suitable to help quit and 70% do not know who to believe when it comes to vape products. To regain trust among these smokers, 30% suggest public health campaigns promoting evidence-based facts about vaping. The UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) emphasized the need for action to counter this lack of trust. Currently, restrictive regulations limit opportunities for evidence-based facts about vaping to be promoted further afield in the media. The UKVIA, together with credible organizations such as the Royal College of Physicians, have been calling for changes in regulations for a number of years. Likewise, the NHS has a crucial role to play in sending a positive message out about the relative harm between vaping and smoking to those in their care.