A research initiative will investigate the long-term health impacts of vaping on children and young adults, providing much-needed insights into its effects on developing bodies and minds
CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared in Open Access Government
The £62 million study, funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), aims to track 100,000 individuals aged eight to 18 over the next decade. By analysing their behaviour, biology and health, researchers hope to gain a clearer understanding of how vaping influences young people’s wellbeing over time.
Vaping Trend Continues to Rise
This research comes at a crucial time, as vaping among young people continues to rise. A quarter of 11 to 15-year-olds have already tried vaping, a statistic that has alarmed health experts. While vaping is widely recognised as a less harmful alternative to smoking and an aid for adult smokers looking to quit, its growing popularity among teenagers raises serious concerns about potential long-term health effects.
Young people are particularly vulnerable to the risks of nicotine and other chemicals found in vapes, making early intervention and education critical. The study will focus on the potential effects of vaping on lung and brain health. Current evidence suggests that vaping can cause airway inflammation, which may lead to respiratory issues. For those with asthma, vaping has been shown to trigger or worsen their condition. Nicotine, a common ingredient in vapes, poses additional risks by potentially harming developing brains and impairing cognitive development.
Alongside this research, the government has taken steps to curb youth vaping through legislative action. From June 2025, disposable vapes will be banned under separate environmental regulations. This measure is expected to reduce their accessibility and appeal to young people, making it more difficult for them to experiment with vaping.
The Role of School Business Managers in Vaping Education
For school business managers, this research serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of proactive health education within schools and the wider school community. As leaders in school administration, school business managers can support initiatives to raise awareness about the potential risks of vaping among students and their families.
School business managers can play a key role in implementing educational campaigns by working with senior leadership teams to develop and distribute vaping awareness materials. Displaying informational posters around school premises, organising parent engagement sessions and supporting school staff in delivering evidence-based advice are all practical steps that can be taken.
Furthermore, collaborating with local health authorities, community groups and educational partners can amplify efforts to address the issue. Offering training sessions for staff on how to identify signs of vaping use and addiction can help ensure early intervention. Additionally, providing parents with guidance on discussing vaping with their children can empower families to take preventive action.
Given the rise in vaping among young people, it is crucial for school business managers to support educational initiatives that inform students and parents about the potential health risks. By taking an active role in vaping prevention and education, school business managers can help create a safer and healthier environment for young people, contributing to the long-term objectives of this significant research project.
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