The BMA at its Annual Representative meeting (ARM) in Brighton today passed a motion highlighting increasing public health concerns about vaping and e-cigarettes, including addiction and serious lung health risks, and affirms that they constitute a public health emergency.

Professor David Strain, BMA board of science chair and Dr Heather Grimbaldeston, BMA public health medicine committee chair said, 

"Doctors are increasingly concerned by the impact of vaping and nicotine addiction on public health, particularly among children and young people. While e-cigarettes can play a role in helping smokers quit, their widespread marketing and promotion risk creating a new generation dependent on nicotine.

"Today's vote sends a clear message that the Government must not lose momentum. Building on the success of the Tobacco and Vapes Act, including tighter controls on advertising and marketing, standardised packaging, and better support for people looking to overcome nicotine dependence.

"Preventing nicotine addiction and reducing smoking-related harm must remain a public health priority, and we urge the Government to act accordingly."

Ends.

Notes to editors

The motion as passed reads: 

Motion by GATESHEAD DIVISION: That this meeting notes the growing public health concerns regarding electronic cigarettes and vapes, including risks of addiction and irreversible lung damage, and affirms that vaping and e-cigarettes
constitute a public health emergency; and:-
demands that the UK Government urgently introduce standardised, plain packaging on all vape and e-cigarette products;
demands that the UK Government legislate to restrict display and marketing of vape and e-cigarette products, including a full ban on advertising, promotion, and sponsorship;
demands the implementation of an integrated, specialist NHS smoking and vaping cessation pathway to support patients dependent on nicotine products;
recommends that any business whose primary income derives from nicotine products be brought under the scope of Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) Article 5.3 guidance;
calls for a statutory levy on tobacco and vape/e-cigarette companies, with all proceeds ring-fenced for health research, smoking cessation support services, and public health initiatives.

BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.