Smokefree by 2030 – Ambitious or Unrealistic? 

Packet of Cigarettes With Smoking Kills Message on the Box

Back in 2019, the UK government announced bold plans for England to become ‘smokefree’ by 2030, meaning an adult smoking prevalence rate which falls to 5% or less of the population. Fast forward four years and only seven at the time of writing from that target date, is the plan an ambitious achievable one or now unrealistic? 

As we have seen in the past decade, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, smoking numbers are falling, which is a great sign, but at the same time there are still six million smokers in the UK. Below we evaluate what’s happened during the four years, some interesting new developments in the news and whether the UK can achieve the goal of Smokefree by 2030. 

Key Statistics About Smokers and Smoking Cessation

Below are just some of the key stats taken from a recent study by ASH (Action on Smoking and Health Organisation) that highlights how smoking impacts social groups and potentially generations to come if it’s not stopped.  

  • Nearly twice as many smoking-related cancers are diagnosed in the most deprived quintile of the adult population of England every year compared to the least deprived quintile (11,247 vs. 6,200). 
  • People living in social rented housing are 3.8 times more likely to smoke than people who own their properties outright (28.6% vs 7.6%).  
  • People with routine and manual occupations are 2.5 times more likely to smoke than people with managerial and professional occupations (23.2% vs 9.3%). 
  • The prevalence of smoking is 25.8% among people with a long-term mental health condition and people with anxiety and depression,9 and 40.5% among people with serious mental illness. 
  • Women living in the most deprived areas are more likely to smoke throughout pregnancy (66.6% of those who were smokers at conception are still smokers at delivery) than women in the least deprived areas (57.7% are still smokers at delivery). 

Why Has the Smokefree Plan Stalled? 

Only last year, prominent health organisation Cancer Research UK stated that it would be more like 2039 that the target of 5% or less prevalence is achieved by the UK government based on current projections. Currently based on their estimates, this is a more realistic timeline unless policies drastically change, and we witnessed instead a 70% increase in pace on the original set timeline. 

So, what is the UK doing wrong? 

Well, to begin with, they are sending mixed messages to not only key influential figures but the population as a whole by not following through with their initial message that e-cigarettes are 95% safer than smoking cigarettes. Instead, they publish government reports and we also see in the media (free press) all types of sensationalist ‘studies’ that scaremonger the public into believing that vaping is just as dangerous.  

What much of this centres around in the news and reports is a high number of articles about the dangers and easy accessibility of black market vapes and even legally sold disposable vapes, which offer an entry into vaping for young non-smokers.  

Already we’re seeing a clamp down on this with countries like Australia, New Zealand and the US imposing heavy sanctions across the e-cigarette market, which is already heavily regulated. The UK needs to draw a line and back up their initial claim that vaping is significantly safer as an alternative than smoking. 

The plan to get the UK Smokefree by 2030 also requires more funding at the government level for stop smoking services, as well as further campaigns and clear messaging that smoking is an inevitable killer. While the Khan review of 2022 highlighted the steps the UK government needs to take to reduce smoking numbers, we are still yet to see a 2023 tobacco control plan update which was expected midway through the year. 

What is the Latest UK Government Plan for Smoking Cessation? 

Finally, we have seen a positive step from UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak with his recent announcement to increase the smoking age by one year every year so that eventually cigarettes are removed altogether. 

With that in mind, the plan would mean a child aged 14 today would never be allowed to buy tobacco. A bold move that may define his time as PM, and interestingly with no opposition from other parties such as Labour. The law has already been set by New Zealand that it will be illegal for anyone born after 2008 to buy a cigarette, so could the UK soon follow? Based on 500,000 admissions to NHS hospitals every year because of cigarettes, clearly something needs to be done. 

As highlighted in the Khan review, other measures need to be followed for the 2030 goal to become fact and not fiction. Unless steps such as improving prevention in the NHS and promoting vaping through government-backed initiatives are not supported, that 2030 target will quickly pass. 

How Many Cigarettes Are There in a Disposable Vape  

Woman Holding Two Pink Disposable Vape Puff Bars

Each year we know that roughly 76,000 people die from cigarette habits. Organisations like the NHS are trying to put a stop to that by offering services and alternative products that can help smokers quit. One of those recommended products is e-cigarettes, which also contain nicotine (an addictive substance) like cigarettes.   

But there has always been a real curiosity about how much nicotine is actually in each vape kit. Compared to cigarettes, which are not only bad for your health but always have a distinctive smell and taste (impacting the senses of humans who smoke), vaping is available in different flavours and formats.   

Recently, there has been a surge in the popularity of disposable vaping. But with a TPD regulations maximum capacity set of 2ml per disposable, just how much nicotine is inside each puff bar?  

The Amount of Nicotine in a Cigarette  

Studies over the years have varied with results regarding nicotine levels within each individual stick contained in an average 20 pack of cigarettes. Generally, the consensus is that most cigarettes contain between 11.9 mg and 14.5 mg per stick, but not all of that is absorbed.   

This is because the concentration is diluted due to varying factors, such as the nicotine content itself, how a person puffs a cigarette, individual frequency of smoking and the design of the product. So in fact, it’s typically closer to 1-1.5mg of nicotine actually inhaled and absorbed per cigarette.  

It’s important to know this so we can figure out as close an estimate as possible in comparison to absorbing nicotine through vaping. What’s important to note between the two is the other chemicals absorbed into the body.   

While there is still limited research into long-term use, we know that e-cigarettes contain a mixture of nicotine, flavourings, vegetable glycerin and/or propylene glycol. Whereas cigarettes contain up to 5,000 different toxins and chemicals, many of which are dangerous to the body, including combustible tobacco and other carcinogens.   

Nicotine derived from the tobacco plant is the addictive substance that keeps somebody smoking or vaping. Importantly, with an e-liquid compared to a cigarette, it’s much clearer what the nicotine level is per vape juice, and even more importantly, you can reduce that level yourself by selecting a reduced nicotine strength or even zero percent nicotine.  

How Much Nicotine in E-Liquids and How is This Measured?  

The mathematics is simple to work out how much nicotine is in a vape juice bottle. As stated previously, it’s illegal to sell a vape juice bottle containing nicotine of a quantity larger than 2ml. You can buy 50ml or 100ml shortfill bottles, where you can add a nicotine shot yourself, but the larger bottle does not contain nicotine.   

As a rule of thumb, nicotine with e-liquids is measured per millilitres. Therefore, with a maximum limit of 20mg nicotine strength, whether traditional freebase nicotine or using a nicotine salt formula, 20mg/ml vape juice equates to 40mg of nicotine in a 2ml bottle.   

Other strengths include 3mg, 6mg, 10mg, 12mg and 18mg per ml, so you always multiply by two to get the total nicotine concentrate per bottle.  

If a smoker puffs between 1-1.5mg of nicotine per stick, the maximum amount of nicotine that person will inhale is 30mg per pack.   

Complete levels of absorption research on nicotine from vaping are at early stages but highlight increased absorption compared to smoking. Rough estimates show that vaping a 2ml e-liquid at 20mg strength equates to smoking one or two packs of cigarettes.  

A Disposable Vape Comparison to Cigarettes 

With disposable vapes, they are often sold in 2ml capacity with 20mg nic salts (aimed at heavy smokers). But you can also find them in 10mg options, which is better for social smokers looking to quit.   

What you get is a higher concentration of nicotine with a 20mg disposable, and because it’s created with the nicotine salt process, that means quicker absorption into the bloodstream and smoother delivery.   

Because the equivalency of a 20mg nic salt is one to two packs of cigarettes, you get roughly the same level of nicotine in one compact device and nowhere near the dangerous chemicals and toxins in your system.  

In mathematical terms, if you puff on a cigarette between 10-15 times before discarding it, even at the maximum amount of 15 puffs for a disposable, with an average disposable vape allowing 600 puffs, that’s equal to two packs of cigarettes.  

With disposables from the likes of Elf Bar, Elux and Geek Bar, they’re considered convenient entry-level devices with sweeter e-liquid flavours that acts as a transitional device between smoking and vaping a more cost-effective pod kit or vape pen in the future.   

You’ll still get a like-for-like nicotine habit, with less of the dangerous toxins and sweeter flavours to match (with it more than likely your senses will begin to return after quitting smoking).   

For a cheaper price than a packet of cigarettes and a safer alternative for your health, it’s a win-win switching from smoking to vaping, with equal amounts of nicotine available for a fraction of the price.  

The Pros and Cons of Vaping in the UK: Is It Safe and Effective? 

Person Holding a Vape and Cigarette in the Hand

The debate rages on about the risks of vaping in the UK compared to picking up a packet of cigarettes from your local shop. While decades of research have highlighted the dangers of smoking to the general public, as well as to those in a passive nature, what can be said of vaping, which is still in its infancy in terms of research? We explore the pros and cons of vaping instead of smoking as an alternative recommended by health professionals (although not advised as a stand-alone product to use).   

Health Benefits of Vaping vs Smoking 

Vaping is often touted as a healthier alternative to traditional smoking, but can it improve your health after you quit smoking? It would be more prudent to go cold turkey and cut out nicotine completely (which is not a health risk on its own but can produce mild side effects, as well as being addictive).   

One of the main advantages of vaping is that it eliminates the combustion process that occurs with smoking, which releases harmful toxins and carcinogens into the lungs. Vaping also allows users to control their nicotine intake, which can be helpful for those looking to quit smoking. Additionally, some studies have suggested that vaping may be less harmful to the cardiovascular system compared to smoking. However, it’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the long-term health effects of vaping.   

 Potential Risks and Side Effects  

While vaping may have some potential health benefits, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and side effects associated with it. One of the main concerns is the lack of regulation and oversight in the vaping industry, which has led to the availability of products that may contain harmful substances. There have been cases of lung injuries and even deaths linked to vaping, although these incidents are speculation rather than direct proof, as medical researchers do not have concrete proof that a death or injury is solely linked to vaping compared to smoking.  

Additionally, there is concern about the appeal of vaping to young people, as it can serve as a gateway to traditional smoking. Nicotine addiction is also a potential risk, as some e-liquids contain high levels of nicotine. It’s important to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and make an informed decision about whether vaping is right for you.   

Cost Comparison: Vaping vs. Smoking  

One of the main benefits of vaping compared to smoking is the potential cost savings. Vaping can be significantly cheaper than smoking traditional cigarettes, especially in the long run. While the initial cost of purchasing a vaping device and e-liquids may be higher, the ongoing costs are generally lower. This is because e-liquids are typically cheaper than packs of cigarettes, and a single bottle of e-liquid can last for a longer period.   

In the UK, with the increases in tobacco tax, this has put the price of a pack of cigarettes up to an average of £12, depending on the brand. So even if vaping consists of more equipment, as a long-term alternative you will notice a difference in your bank balance.  

Additionally, there are often discounts and promotions available for vaping products, further reducing the cost. However, it’s important to note that the cost of vaping can vary depending on individual usage and preferences.   

Vaping Regulations in the UK  

In the UK, vaping is regulated under the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016. These regulations set out various requirements for the manufacturing, packaging, and sale of vaping products. For example, e-liquids must be registered with the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and meet certain quality and safety standards. Vaping products cannot be sold to anyone under the age of 18, and there are restrictions on advertising and promotion of vaping products. Vapers need to be aware of these regulations and ensure they are purchasing and using vaping products that comply with the law.  

Final Thoughts  

There are several factors to weigh up whether it is the right decision to vape. Essentially, its core aim and purpose as a cessation tool is to help smokers quit, and it has done so for a few years now, with vaping numbers increasing and smoking numbers decreasing. While there are high costs sometimes associated with vaping devices and accessories, in the long run, it still works out cheaper than a smoking habit and is significantly better for your health. So hopefully this article has helped to point out why it is important for multiple reasons to put down the cigarette and try other alternatives to increase your chances of quitting smoking for good.  

Is Smoking Bad for the Environment?  

Cigarette Butts in Sand on a Beach

As the years pass, the shocking truths about smoking cigarettes continue to highlight why it is not just bad for general health and those around you but also for the environment.   

With eight million lives a year lost globally from tobacco, that alone is enough evidence to suggest the danger that smoking poses.   

It’s the most littered item globally, with trillions of cigarette butts found in oceans, beaches and pathways each year. With that in mind, how bad is it for our planet and why? What can be done to reverse the damage and provide a better future?   

To understand this, we must look at the journey of making a cigarette to the trillions that are puffed each year and then disposed of.  

The Lifecycle of a Cigarette

With so many cigarettes in circulation each year, purchased and smoked daily and habitually as an addiction, a lot of space is needed to grow tobacco plants.   

To do this, 4.3 million hectares of land are used to produce cigarettes, culminating in the needless destruction of forests, harming biodiversity and degrading soil in the process.   

Estimates suggest 11.4 million metric tonnes of wood are cured to make tobacco. And in addition, 22 billion tonnes of water in tobacco production.   

Once the tobacco leaves are harvested, they undergo various processes to create the final product. From drying and curing to blending and flavouring, each step in the production process requires time, effort and local resources. The constant use of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilisers contaminates the environment and wildlife.  

What About Its Impact on Wildlife?

These chemicals can end up in water bodies, affecting aquatic life and potentially entering our food chain. The majority of tobacco is produced in low and middle-income countries, challenging the environment and economy of its people.   

Then the world has to consider the chemical elements used in production and how they negatively impact the environment. They seep into water and soil, which is bad for not only human health but animals too.   

How cigarette butts impact wildlife is often overlooked as well. Animals, including birds, fish, and mammals, can mistake discarded cigarette butts for food or the right sort of materials to create a nest.  

Ingestion of these toxic waste products can lead to severe health issues and even death. Additionally, animals can become entangled in cigarette packaging and suffer injuries or suffocation. Something needs to be done about this fast to protect our wildlife and ecosystem.   

How Does Smoking Pollute the Air?

Not only does smoke damage your heart, arteries, lungs and several other areas of the body, but it also does significant harm to the air we breathe. Toxic emissions produced by tobacco on an annual basis are equal to roughly three million transatlantic flights!  

It impacts greenhouse gases and releases dangerous air pollutants like carbon monoxide and about 2.6 billion kilograms of carbon dioxide per year, as well as 5.2 billion kilograms of methane into the atmosphere.  

Even the transportation of tobacco leaves in the production process, while necessary for the industry, creates so much air pollution. Tobacco smoke produces higher particulate matter pollution than diesel exhaust, which highlights the risks faced when tobacco farms are created. And with second-hand smoke, smokers are also releasing thousands of dangerous toxins into the air, harming those in the vicinity.   

Toxins trickle into the earth slowly from cigarette butts, taking 14 years to do so, which are not biodegradable, plus the plastic filters damage the land too. Cigarette filters are made of cellulose acetate, a type of plastic that can take years to decompose. As they break down, they release microplastics into the environment, further polluting our ecosystems. The impact and shift it has helped to create towards global warming is both clear and alarming.   

The packaging of cigarettes also contributes to waste and litter. The glossy cardboard boxes, plastic wrapping, and foil-lined inner packaging are often discarded improperly, adding to the growing problem of plastic waste. Improper disposal of cigarette packaging not only tarnishes our environment but also adds to the challenges of waste management, requiring additional resources to clean up and process.  

What Can Be Done to Combat This Threat to Our Environment?

The tobacco industry, perhaps feeling threatened by the decline in popularity and the rise of the vaping industry, is recognising the need for change. And so is the Uk government, with their goal to reduce smoking prevalence to below 5% by 2030. One of the key areas of focus is sustainable tobacco farming. By implementing organic farming methods and reducing the use of harmful chemicals, companies aim to minimise the impact on soil, water, and ecosystems. This is a step in the right direction.  

But more needs to be done by governments and regulatory bodies, who have a key part to play in addressing the environmental consequences of cigarettes. Stricter rules must be implemented across the board in all of the areas we have described above from deforestation and littering to tobacco farming and consumer behaviour and awareness.  

By supporting these alternative solutions and initiatives, consumers can make a difference. However, it is crucial for not just consumers but governments and organisations to support and not just talk the talk but walk the walk with action. Let us stub out the truth and pave the way for a healthier, more sustainable future.  

Should the UK Make Vaping Prescription Only Like Australia?  

Australia and UK Crossroads Sign

The debate rages between the worldwide sales of cigarettes containing tobacco vs e-cigarettes as a nicotine replacement. While the UK supports vaping with the world’s first ‘swap to stop’ scheme, countries such as Australia are taking a different approach.   

With the plan to make e-cigarettes prescription-only, what does this mean for the vaping industry, not just down under but worldwide? Will other countries follow suit? Did the UK not get the memo about the risks of vaping to their population of roughly 60 million?  

Australia Tackling Youth Vaping With Biggest Reform in Decades;

In one of the biggest news stories regarding the jostle between smoking and vaping in some time, Australia has made an interesting announcement. Instead of following the same pro-vaping message emitting out of the UK, that it’s a better alternative to smoking, Australia is banning the importation of vaping products which are not prescription. And that even includes those without nicotine.

The thinking process behind this is to curb the teenage issue of inhaling vaping products underage. In addition, rules to minimise attractive packaging and colours for e-cigarettes, as well as flavours and ingredients will hopefully reduce the chances of children and their fascination with vaping. Another way they plan to do this, which is a significant step, is to ban all single-use disposables.  

How Do These Rules Differ From the UK?

Currently, the UK is fighting a different battle. While there is still negative press about vaping in the media, and certainly regarding youth vaping which is understandable, generally medical organisations and the UK government back e-cigarettes as a better alternative. While Australian Health Minister Mark Butler states the tobacco industry is trying to “create a new generation of nicotine addicts through vaping”, it’s quite a claim to make considering there is no tobacco in nicotine e-liquids for vaping.   

Organisations like the NHS recognise the risks of vaping and they do not advise non-smokers to try them, but suggest it is better to vape and quit smoking for your overall health. Studies suggest it contains much less damaging chemicals to the body than smoking.  

Smoking vs Vaping Statistics

There is indeed an issue with vaping among youth. Even in the UK, there is evidence to suggest more than 10% of young people between the ages of 11-15 years old have tried vaping, which is a serious concern. How are they getting hold of them to use when purchases can not be made legal until reaching the adult age of 18? So in this respect, it is good that Australia is tackling this problem.   

However, in the same process of making vaping products prescription only, where are they turning rebellious children? In essence, they may be turning many back towards smoking, which is interestingly not facing the same strict measures. As far as we know, you can still buy cigarettes in Australia without a prescription. In fact, sales in US dollars amount to 11 billion in 2023.    

There are still just under 6 million adult smokers and around 200,000 underage smokers each year in the UK. While there is limited evidence of the long-term risks of vaping, so far there have been no deaths caused directly by e-cigarettes. In contrast, for decades medical research has pinpointed how tobacco in cigarettes kills roughly seven million each year and that is expected to reach 10 million by 2030. So to take such strong measures in Australia towards vaping and not do the same with cigarettes seems ludicrous. Granted tobacco tax is one of the highest worldwide to try to reduce cigarette sales, but removing disposables completely may turn the youth of Australia back towards cigarettes.   

Will the UK Follow Australia?

At the moment it looks unlikely. The swap-to-stop scheme is evidence of that, as they introduced a measure in the complete opposite direction, offering free vapes to the UK public as part of a programme to reduce smoking numbers by 2030. Because they’re seeing the impact smoking is having on the British public, behavioural support will also be offered to help remove the addictive habit. Below are a few medical resources that back up the overall message from the UK that vaping is a better alternative:   

  1. https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/vaping-to-quit-smoking  
  1. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/causes-of-cancer/smoking-and-cancer/is-vaping-harmful  
  1. https://www.yorkshirecancerresearch.org.uk/insights/the-truth-about-vaping  
  1. https://www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/living-with/stop-smoking/vaping  
  1. https://www.kcl.ac.uk/news/vaping-substantially-less-harmful-than-smoking-largest-review-of-its-kind-finds   

Swap to Stop Scheme – UK Government Introduces Free Vape Kits 

No Smoking Sign

The UK is taking another step forward as the pioneer in anti-smoking legislation with the announcement of the ‘Swap to Stop’ scheme. This initiative involves giving out one million free vape kits to share among the six million current smokers in the UK. Costing £45 million to the taxpayers, which will be funded by the Department of Health and Social Care, the latest drive to stop smoking by the UK government will also include behavioural support and a range of other measures. 

Why Smoking Statistics Have Accelerated the Need for This Scheme

You may be wondering why the UK government is backing a product like an e-cigarette that in many cases also contains an addictive substance like nicotine, which is similar to cigarettes. The curiosity is natural but the evidence is clear.  

Of the two, organisations like the NHS and Cancer Research UK claim that neither is good for your health but vaping is a better alternative if you’re a current smoker that’s finding it difficult to quit. 

Let’s face it. Cigarettes kill millions globally each year. They are the number one preventable cause of death, with UK Health Minister Neil O’Brien suggesting as much following the Swap to Stop scheme announcement. 

If you only vape e-liquids, they do not contain tobacco, which when combustible causes damaging effects to your lungs and body. And there are thousands of dangerous unknown toxins too. While e-cigarettes are not risk-free as we mentioned, the ingredients are much clearer; nicotine, a mixture of Propylene Glycol and Vegetable Glycerine (both are used in chemical food and medical production) and sweeteners.  

But the lack of long-term evidence of any potential damage means we cannot say for certain one way or another about the impact of vaping on the human body. What medical experts are saying is it’s less of a risk than smoking – which we know can be fatal. Hence the swap to stop scheme.  

Swap to Stop – What Will £45 Million Be Spent on?

As well as one million vape kits being given to the public, the government has a few plans to help in their target of reducing smoking rates to below 5% by 2030. They want to put the wheels in motion so that once the scheme is up and running, local authorities will eventually have their say on which parts of each region can be prioritised for vape kits and verbal support. 

In addition, funds will be dedicated to helping pregnant women who still suffer from smoking addiction. Vouchers up to the amount of £400 are planned by the end of 2024 for the 1 in 10 that still smoke while carrying a child. The government wants to put less strain on the health of the UK population and the NHS.  

Also, there will be the creation of not just behavioural support to help those wanting to quit smoking, but there is another idea to include mandatory positive messaging and information inside cigarette packets, as another way to help smokers quit. 

And What About Underage Vaping? 

Another area the government has set their sights on is tackling the worrying issue of underage vaping, which is on the rise. A budget of £3 million is planned to create an ‘illicit vapes enforcement squad’. This group will not just enforce rules on the vaping industry but also prevent any illegal purchases to minors of vaping accessories and equipment, whether that’s in vape stores or online sales. 

NHS figures highlighted that in 2021 vape use from children aged 11-15 years old was up to 9%, compared to 6% in 2018. Working together with Trade Standards, the illicit vapes enforcement squad will help to reduce this statistic.  

However, while it’s good that money is dedicated to tracking illegal sales of vape products, hopefully, this does not turn adults and particularly children back towards smoking, when prevalence numbers for cigarettes are at their lowest (13% in 2021). Fingers crossed that the latest initiative created by the UK government encouraging adult vapers to quit cigarettes through free e-cigarette kits is effective. 

Stoptober: a Collective Effort

The month of October is upon us and you know what that means – Stoptober, Public Health England’s annual campaign alongside the NHS. They implore cigarette and tobacco smokers across the country stop smoking, beginning with the 28 day challenge. PHE report doing so means you’re five times more likely to quit for good, especially when turning to vaping as a safer alternative. Designed as an initiative to help people quit cigarettes permanently, it needs not just individual mental strength. In addition, it requires the collective power of thousands coming together to help each other out. The task can be achieved individually without any assistance – through pure will power, persistence and determination. Nonetheless, it always helps to get moral support too.

Two Million Stoptober Quits and Counting

In its 9th year, Stoptober shows no signs of slowing down, yielding or losing popularity. More than two million have signed up already, following the government’s announcement for UK society to go smoke-free by 2030. However, withdrawing from cigarettes will come with its fair share of niggling cravings, anxious feelings, and irrationality. In some cases, people have been smoking more than a pack a day for years. This means it can take multiple attempts to shake off that habit for good, regardless of whether you complete the challenge.

You’ll need all your resolve to not reach for a pack of cigarettes, even after Stoptober. That’s where e-cigarettes enter the equation, to use not just during the campaign but once you’ve completed Stoptober. Whether you go for an easy to use vape pen, or try your luck with something more advanced, it’s proven as an excellent cessation tool.

The nature of a national campaign such as Stoptober ultimately means that you will not be going it alone in your quest to become tobacco-free. With more than six million still smoking in the UK, chances are you know someone looking to quit. The Stoptober website has a host of tips, tricks to support you as well as a great list of products to aid you on your journey to becoming smoke-free. Listen to real-life accounts from people who have been in exactly the same position as you and track your progress throughout the month with the Stoptober app.

Get Support From Friends and Colleagues

Don’t go it alone. Instead, why not take the time to ask your fellow smoking friends if they fancy taking the challenge with you? It doesn’t matter at what point during October that you start the challenge. Heck, you can even start it in November or December 2021 – better late than never. Watch your health improve dramatically within a few days.

It’s essentially all about making the most of the resources available.  If you smoke at work, fellow smokers you meet at regular intervals during the day could also be up for the challenge. People power is a remarkable force to behold and with a little help from your friends, you may just find that by the end of 28 days you’ve achieved your objective of becoming smoke-free. Converse, communicate and cry on each other’s shoulders if needed.

Looking to speak to someone about how you can use e-cigarette devices to help curb your cravings for tobacco this Stoptober? The customer care team at V2 Cigs UK are on hand, online and just a phone call away should you need any expert advice or help regarding any information surrounding e-cigarettes.

How to Stop Smoking – Pick the Right Devices for Stoptober

Ready to rid yourself of the smoke-chain shackles that keep weighing you down? Excited to lead a healthier lifestyle? Let’s take a look at how to stop smoking this Stoptober. Vaping may be the tool you need to overcome that hurdle-like habit that’s proved too difficult in the past.

Smoking Kills

It doesn’t take a genius to work out that smoking kills. In fact, smoking-related diseases account for a staggering 16% of all adult deaths in the UK among the one in seven adults who smoke. Responsible for numerous ailments and diseases including lung cancer, tuberculosis, stroke, heart attack, loss of vision, and more – even second-hand smoke will increase the risk of non-smokers suffering from smoking-related diseases. As a result, it’s not good for those loved ones of yours who regularly have to inhale your surplus smoke. By quitting smoking you’ll not only enhance your quality of life but those nearest and dearest to you too.

Did you know that research published by Public England shows that e-cigarettes are up to 95% less harmful than smoking tobacco products? More importantly, the same research also indicates that vaping can help smokers become smoke-free, and consequently lead a healthier lifestyle than the one which they have been used to.

A more recent study conducted by Queen Mary University London found that vaping e-cigarettes were up to twice as effective as nicotine patches and gums used by smokers trying to quit.

How to Stop Smoking and Get Rid of Cravings

By replacing cigarettes with a vaporizer and a nicotine-based e-juice, smokers can curb their cravings to light up and avoid all the nasty accompaniments that come with smoking. Because vaping heats the e-liquid as opposed to burning tobacco, all the carbon monoxide and tar that is released every time you smoke is removed from the equation. Free yourself from the odorous tobacco smoke that clings to your clothes, smell better and save the time and hassle of excusing yourself every time you need a ‘breath of fresh air’.

From traditional tobacco flavourings to sweet and fruity offerings, e-liquids are available in a range of flavours which provides vapers with an added extra when it comes to the taste of their vape. As well as flavours, you can also choose from a range of nicotine strengths, which means you can gradually reduce the strength of nicotine you use and become both smoke-free and nicotine-free. Win-win.

The Best Device for First-Time Vapers

For first-time vapers, the myriad of devices and accessories that lie in wait can seem dizzying. Quitting smoking is hard enough without having to sift through the assortment of options that are presented to you, right? Keeping your vaping equipment as straightforward as possible is the key to a successful switch from smoker to vaper.

Alternatives to Cigarettes

Many question how to stop smoking, which continues to prove a challenge worldwide. While there are numerous devices at your disposal, starting with a simple e-cigarette should be your first port of call. Devices with multiple functions such as high-end vape pens and box mods are great, but they can be tricky to work out for first-time vapers. Get to grips with the basics and sub-ohm box mods can be something to look forward to once you’ve become accustomed to vaping.

For a completely fuss-free experience, look for a simple V2 Vsavi Starter Pack that provides everything you need to get started. Enjoy a standard cigarette styled re-chargeable battery and USB charger, together with your choice of flavoured nicotine-based e-liquid cartridges. Prefilled, simply screw the cartridge onto the end of your fully charged and vape away. No buttons, no-refills – just happy vaping. The latest craze among new vapers and those seeking the easiest e-cigarette is the disposable option. Brands like GeekVape, SMOK and many more top brands produce some ready-made devices (disposables) set up before packaging. Just open up, inhale till empty and dispose of sensibly when finished.

How to Stop Smoking – Break the Habit

A far more environmentally friendly alternative to the aforementioned disposable screw-on cartridges, shisha style tanks like V2 Vsavi’s EX Blanks series produce great flavour and vapour and can be refilled up to 15 times before you’ll need to replace them. Fill your tank with e-liquid and screw onto V2 Vsavi’s standard e-cigarette battery and away you go. For those used to rolling their cigarettes, refilling your e-liquid tanks with a quality e-liquid is the next step. Examples such as V2 Vsavi’s Premium E-Liquid replicates the effort of rolling in an easier fashion.

Those with a serious smoking habit may be used to strong tobacco or cigarettes with a throat hit to match. A device that may be worth thinking about is a POD vape system to replicate that experience. PODS use a nicotine salt e-juice stored in a pod, rather than e-liquid in a tank. Nicotine salts offer an alternative form of nicotine that provides a similar throat hit to cigarettes. In addition, they offer that kick of nicotine that’ll leave you satisfied for some time. 

Vape Pods ideally suited to newbies are devices such as the RipTide RipStick, Voom Pod Kit or the iQ Air. Simply fill a blank pod with VSAVI’s range of flavoured nicotine salts; inhale, exhale and curb the craving for a cigarette. Alternatively, you can pick from a range of prefilled nic salt choices. They produce the smooth texture, multiple flavour options and stronger hit of nicotine to curb those cravings.

Save Money and Vape

Vaping isn’t just a healthier alternative to smoking – it’s more affordable too. You can opt for the simple e-cigarette style device. Alternatively, many go down the route of a Pod Vape – either for under £20 works for new vapers. While a bottle 10ml e-liquid or nic salts might cost £5.99, that one bottle will provide the equivalent of up to three packs of cigarettes.

Depending on how much you smoke, by switching from smoking to vaping, you could soon be making some significant savings. Whichever way you wish to spend your extra cash, the benefits of vaping mean that both your health and lifestyle will begin to reap the rewards.

Public Health England Insist that Vaping is Safer

As part of the Public Health England (PHE) Health Harms Campaign, a revealing video highlighting the effects of smoking tobacco compared to vapour from e-cigarettes.

If you vape, you will undoubtedly be aware of the advantages that e-cigarettes hold over their traditional tobacco-based counterparts – more money, an improved sense of health, less time spent out in the cold just to get your nicotine hit…the list goes on. Despite the tangible benefits on offer, of some six million smokers in the UK, almost half (44%) wrongly believe that vaping is as harmful as smoking or that they are unaware of the significantly lower risk that vaping has on their health (22%).

Public Health England Research Into Tobacco Risks

The statistics surrounding tobacco are shocking to say the least. Roughly eight million die each year from tobacco use, with 1.2 million from passive smoking alone. Sadly 65,000 of those are children who have no control over the issue whatsoever. From smoking tobacco products like cigarettes, you put yourself at risk of developing one of 20 different types of cancer. This includes those affecting the throat, respiratory system, bowel and kidneys. Roughly 1.3 billion use tobacco products worldwide, with the majority of those (80%) in low income and middle income households. You also have to think of the cost to fund the habit of smoking tobacco. At an average price of £9.91 per pack of cigarettes in the UK and on average ten cigarettes smoked a day, that’s money that could be used towards other costs such as utilities for housing or food.

As the video demonstrates, representing a month’s worth of smoking and vaping, scientists Dr Lion Shahab and Dr Rosemary Leonard compare the smoke of a cigarette versus the vapour produced from an e cigarette while using cotton wool buds to represent what might happen inside our bodies. We all know that smoking is bad and as we are sure you will, of course, concur, the evidence from the experiment is frightful, to say the least.

Expectedly, the chamber of cotton buds subjected to the tobacco smoke contains a lot of sticky black tar.

In comparison, the chamber of cotton wool buds covered with vapour from the e-cigs appeared free from any such stain. An area in the middle of cotton wool buds being damp at best as the only kind resulting consequence.

As well as the dangers of cancer, the video highlights the damage to your lungs and other body parts. Smoking tobacco additionally reduces fertility and significantly raises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, eye disease and dementia.

Vaping is 95% Less Harmful than Smoking

While not completely risk-free, the video published by PHE is both a sobering and a startling visual representation. It backs up their declaration in 2015 that e cigarettes are up to 95% less harmful than smoking tobacco.

Conducting the experiment, smoking cessation academic Dr Lion Shahab commented:

“Research we and others have conducted shows that vaping is much less harmful than smoking and that using e cigarettes on a long-term basis is relatively safe, similar to using licensed nicotine products, like nicotine patches or gum. Using e cigarettes or nicotine replacement such as patches or gum will boost your chances of quitting successfully.”

Annually since then Public Health England have published reports the positive studies carried out to back up e-cigarettes. This is a positive step to remove tobacco use from society in the UK. In 2020 PHE looked to quash any misleading representations and negativities surrounding vaping, mainly stemming from the USA. They did this step by step, tackling several bias studies and reports via media outlets. Their latest report demonstrates the vaping industry still has much work ahead to help the UK government’s target to stop smoking by 2030.

More Education On E-Cigarettes Needed 

Despite an estimated 2.5 million vapers in England having successfully quit smoking with the help of e cigarettes, it is clear that more education and information is needed. Otherwise, the 44% of smokers will not understand that vaping is a much less harmful alternative to toxic smoking cigarettes.

Director of Health Improvement at PHE, Professor John Newton said:

“It would be tragic if thousands of smokers who could quit with the help of an e cigarette are being put off due to false fears about safety. We need to reassure smokers that switching to an e cigarette would be much less harmful than smoking.”

From contracting ‘popcorn lung’ to vaporisers pulverising homes, myths and false rumours surrounding e-cigs are tough to stop. Various advertising limitations imposed on the e cigarette industry mean that it can be difficult to convey the positive impact of e-cigarettes. This in turn can make it difficult to convince the naysayers otherwise that vaping is a far less harmful habit.

Know someone that smokes? Forward them this blog and show the video. Give them the low down on all things e cigs and e-liquids – they’ll thank you later when they’re a vaper.

Voom Pod Kit Review

Woman Holding Voom Pod Kit

The reason behind this blog is to provide a source of informative content that helps people quit smoking, by using vaping as a safer cessation tool without combustible tobacco or the buildup of tar in the lungs. While we know that the motive is often there for smokers to give up cigarettes, the actual task is much harder unless you have the right kit. A large number of factors make a huge difference when you start; getting the right e-liquid, understanding coil technology, getting a similar throat hit to cigarettes and much more. The list goes on and the challenge is difficult to quit smoking if you don’t have the right vape in place. It needs to mimic smoking and remove all the nasty toxic chemicals (up to 7000 unknown chemicals in each cigarette). Today we look at the Voom pod kit to see if it’s hit the nail on the head as a vape kit for smokers looking to quit.

Voom Pod Kit Key Features

  • Compatible with Voom nic salt pods or can be prefilled with any e-liquid
  • Auto-inhale meaning no buttons or complications!
  • Unique coil technology
  • Two USB charger types – one with a cable and another that slots straight into your laptop or USB port without a cable
  • Charges fully in less than an hour

Voom Pod Kit Performance and Design

This is one of the closest pod vape systems you will use that mirrors the familiarity of a cigarette. Sleek and thin with a sturdy plastic casing, it resembles a larger handheld USB stick that fits comfortably in the hand. With a 320mAh battery, this explains the compact size of the vape pod. How long it lasts depends on how often you vape. It can last up to a day without charging if you use it less frequently.

Factor in the handy portable Voom charger case which houses the battery to charge when you place the Voom inside highlights its practicality as a kit alongside the charger. This device will perform well for anyone looking to quit smoking because of the reasonably restrictive mouth to lung draw which resembles a cigarette but gives a smooth intake and exhales, thanks to the 20mg nic salt pods. You get the right delivery of nicotine, more than enough per hit to satisfy any cravings and certainly smoother than traditional nicotine you’ll find in most devices. 

The flavour is fantastic, with nine options to choose from including traditional flavours such as tobacco and mint. In terms of colour, you are a little more limited with gold and grey to choose from. Nonetheless, both look great in the hand while out and about.

How to Use the Device

Unlike more advanced vape mods with adjustable settings such as power, wattage, voltage or temperature, the Voom is straightforward and set up for beginner vapers. All you do is take the device out of the packing, which should have a pod preinstalled, with the intricate coil technology already designed inside so you don’t need to concern yourself with that. It’s auto-draw so all you have to do is inhale on the mouthpiece like you would a cigarette. The pod once empty removes with ease thanks to the magnetic attachment. Once you click the new pod back in, the LED indicator will light up.

Technical Details

  • Dimensions – 110mm x 75mm x 21mm
  • Weight – 16.2g
  • 1.2ml pod capacity
  • 320mAh battery
  • Short-circuit protection
  • Overcharge protection
  • Overtime protection for smoking
  • Low-voltage protection
  • Blowback protection

 

Verdict

This is a fantastic little device. An ideal kit for any beginner vaper or even a smart backup for someone with more experience behind the vape. You’ve got a generously tight draw when you vape, as well as a 320mAh battery that can easily charge. Whether that’s with the case on the go or under an hour with the cable. You also have heavily protected safety functions listed above, for peace of mind. In addition, it’s lightweight for a portable option – whatever your level. With so many flavours to choose from and it offering magnetic nic salt pods or a refillable choice for vapers, the Voom delivers on multiple counts.