The unseen cloud: a survey of vaping practices and the acquisition of vaping products within the UK

Abstract

Summary Background Vaping of cannabinoid-based products and informal acquisition of vaping products were associated with the outbreak of E-cigarette or vaping associated lung injury (EVALI) in the USA. Current prevalence of cannabinoid-based vaping within the UK is not known and literature regarding the acquisition of vaping products is limited. Aim To estimate the prevalence of nicotine-based, nicotine-free and cannabinoid-based product vaping within the UK and to determine where vaping products are acquired. Design and methods A voluntary online survey of individuals aged 16 and over within the UK was conducted using a convenience sample. Data were collected on respondent demographics, smoking/vaping history and acquisition of e-liquids/products. Results A total of 2478 responses were included. Median age 45 years (interquartile range 35–57). Prevalence of current vaping of nicotine-based e-liquids, nicotine-free e-liquids and cannabinoid-based products was 14.4%, 11.2% and 5.49%, respectively. Current nicotine-based and nicotine-free vaping was most prevalent in 25–34 years olds (22.4% and 19.2% of respondents). Current cannabinoid-based vaping was most prevalent in 16–24 years olds. The most common ‘ever’ used cannabinoid-based products were cannabidiol oil/cannabigerol oil and cannabis leaves (4.8%). Specialist vaping stores were the most common source of ‘ever’ acquisition for all products. 36.8% and 40.5% of respondents who had ever vaped nicotine-based and nicotine-free e-liquids reported prior acquisition from informal sources. Conclusion This survey reported a higher prevalence of current cannabinoid-based vaping within the UK (5.5%) than previously reported in the USA (2.0%). In addition to the informal acquisition of vaping products as demonstrated within the survey, these results highlight potential underestimation of the risk of EVALI within the UK.