A vape is a device that heats a liquid to create a vapour that is inhaled. The liquid usually contains nicotine, flavourings and other ingredients.
Vaping is less harmful than smoking cigarettes because it does not produce the harmful tar or carbon monoxide found in tobacco smoke. However, it is not risk-free and is only recommended for adults who smoke and want to quit.
What we know about vaping
Vaping is a much safer alternative to smoking and exposes you to fewer harmful chemicals than smoking cigarettes. Most vapes contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance, although nicotine-free options are also available.
While vaping exposes you to fewer harmful chemicals than smoking cigarettes, it can still expose the lungs and body to substances that may have negative health effects. As research into the long-term health effects of vaping is still ongoing, and the full impact of it on our body remains unknown.
For adults who already smoke, vaping may be used as an effective stop smoking aid. However, people who do not smoke are advised not to start vaping.
Nicotine-containing vapes can be an effective tool to help stop smoking, particularly when used alongside behavioural support. Evidence shows that this combination can increase the likelihood of successfully quitting smoking.
The Lewisham Stop Smoking Service offers free vapes to smokers through the National Swap to Stop Scheme and also provides support to vapers wishing to reduce or stop vaping via our Stop Vaping Service.