Vaping rises among non‑smokers, NHS warns illegal sales to under‑18s
ONS data shows 5.4 million adults vape, including over a million who have never smoked, while the NHS stresses that buying vapes under 18 remains a criminal offence.
Trust 68Craft 95Hype 25How this was reported ▾
Trust score reflects named sources, ONS data, and attributed figures, but only one outlet and no specific dates.
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The Office for National Statistics released figures on 29 July 2026 showing that 5.4 million people aged 16 and over vape in the United Kingdom. Among them, around 1.1 million have never smoked a cigarette, according to the same survey.
Young adults drive the increase
Haringey has highest smoking rate in London
New data from the Office for National Statistics shows a significant rise in e-cigarette use among young adults.
The ONS data also indicate that roughly one in six adults aged 25 to 34 use e‑cigarettes either daily or on occasion. The age group includes individuals such as Gracey Mungulu, a 21‑year‑old hairdresser who began vaping at 16 after seeing classmates do so.
It’s the hand action, just having something in my hand.
Gracey Mungulu, hairdresser
Gracey told BBC News that the habit helps her manage social anxiety and keeps her hands busy while she works. She estimates her weekly spend on refillable devices at about £35.
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Labour MP Dr Allison Gardner has lived with the condition for a decade and is pushing for improved diagnosis and treatment.
Health warnings and legal limits
The NHS warns that nicotine in vapes is highly addictive and that it is illegal for anyone under 18 to purchase a vape. The agency also notes that disposable vapes were banned across the UK last year in an effort to curb youth uptake.
Dr Helen Wall, a GP, said she frequently hears patients describe a psychological dependence on the act of vaping, describing it as a way to regulate emotions. She added that many users mistakenly believe vaping is safe because of its marketing.
Support for quitting remains uneven
A recent survey cited by the BBC found that only 45 percent of healthcare providers in England reported offering vaping‑cessation support. The NHS recommends gradual reduction of nicotine strength, extending intervals between sessions, or switching to approved nicotine‑replacement products for those who wish to quit.
Prof Sarah Jackson of University College London highlighted that while some vapers may have avoided smoking, others are exposed to new health risks. She referenced a 2024 UCL study that showed rising nicotine use among young adults even as cigarette smoking fell.
Action on Smoking and Health spokesperson Hazel Cheeseman said the marketing of colourful, flavoured vapes likely draws people who would not otherwise vape. She called for plain‑packaging rules similar to those applied to cigarettes.
The next step for policymakers is expected to be a response to a government consultation on vape marketing, which the ONS data have put under renewed scrutiny.
Questions this report answers
+How many adults in the UK vape according to the latest data?
The Office for National Statistics reported on 29 July 2026 that 5.4 million people aged 16 and over vape in Britain. This figure includes about 1.1 million who have never smoked a cigarette.
+Is it legal for someone under 18 to buy a vape?
The NHS states it is illegal for anyone under 18 to purchase a vape. The law applies across the United Kingdom and is reinforced by the ban on disposable vapes introduced last year.
+What proportion of 25‑34‑year‑olds use e‑cigarettes?
The ONS survey indicates that roughly one in six adults aged 25 to 34 may use e‑cigarettes either daily or occasionally. This makes the age group the most likely to vape among adults.
+What help is available for people who want to quit vaping?
The NHS advises a gradual reduction in nicotine strength, longer gaps between vaping sessions, or switching to approved nicotine‑replacement therapy. However, a recent survey found that only 45 percent of English health providers currently offer dedicated vaping‑cessation support.
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