Using vapes to help you quit smoking
Public Health England reports that vaping is around 95% less harmful than smoking. Many people use vapes to help them quit smoking. Smokers who choose to use a vape as a quit aid are encouraged to seek support from their local stop smoking service, where they can access expert advice and personalised support.
Smokefree Somerset can provide vapes as part of our stop smoking service, along with personalised support from our experienced advisors.
We do not provide support for stopping vaping. If you would like help to quit vaping, read the NHS How to quit vaping guide.
What is a vape?
A vape is a device that heats a liquid to create a vapour that you inhale. The liquid usually contains nicotine, flavourings and other ingredients.
Unlike cigarettes, vapes do not burn tobacco. This means they do not produce smoke, tar or carbon monoxide, which are some of the most harmful substances found in cigarette smoke.
Most vapes contain:
- a battery
- a heating element (coil)
- vape liquid (e-liquid)
Some vapes use refillable tanks, while others are disposable and designed to be used once.
Are vapes safer for me than smoking?
Current evidence suggests that vaping is much less harmful than smoking cigarettes. Experts estimate that vapes are, based on what we know so far, around 95% safer than cigarettes.
Smoking is associated with some very serious health risks to both the smoker and others around them. Smokers who switch from smoking tobacco to vapes can significantly reduce the risks to their health.
Are there any health risks from vaping?
Vaping is not completely risk-free, but experts agree that it is substantially less harmful than smoking. There is good evidence that nicotine is associated with few health risks in smokers. But most of the health risks from smoking come from the toxic chemicals produced when tobacco burns, rather than from nicotine itself.
Is vaping the same as smoking?
No. Vaping feels different from smoking and requires a different inhaling technique.
If you are new to vaping, ask the retailer or an experienced user for advice on how to use your vape correctly.
Can I use a vape during pregnancy?
While vaping is much safer than smoking, there is still limited evidence about the effects of vaping during pregnancy.
Licensed stop smoking medicines remain the recommended option. However, if you choose to use a vape to help you stop smoking or cut down during pregnancy, Smokefree Somerset has specialist pregnancy advisors who can provide support and advice.
Get support to stop smoking
If you would like support to quit smoking, complete our booking form below.
A member of our team will contact you to discuss how we can help you on your quit-smoking journey.