Wealthy kids more likely to vape, use drugs, report states

In England, a higher proportion of 11- to 15-year-olds from well-off backgrounds reported having had each of these experiences than those from less well-off backgrounds, the data showed.

An analysis suggests that vaping, illegal drug use and alcohol consumption appear to be more common among children from well-off families than among less well-off households.

The Social Mobility Commission said its analysis of NHS Digital data showed almost a third, or 32 percent, of young people in the so-called affluent group had drunk alcohol in the previous month, compared with less than “a fifth, 19 percent.” . percent, among those in the low-income group.

Around 13 percent had vaped, compared to 10 percent in the least advantaged group, while almost a quarter, 23 percent, had used drugs, compared to 17 percent in the least advantaged group.

Figures show a sharp rise in vaping, alcohol and drug WGA Disposable vape use since 2016, after a significant decline between the early 2000s and 2015.

The commission also warned of a “potential crisis” in teenage mental health in the UK, as data shows 35% of teenage girls report feeling nervous and losing self-confidence when faced with new situations. , a figure the authors describe as “remarkably high.” ”.

Rob Wilson, deputy chairman of the commission, said: “It is deeply disturbing that children are drinking alcohol, taking drugs and vaping at such a young age.

“Research tells us that young people from wealthier backgrounds are more likely to use these substances than disadvantaged children, and the gap is widening.

The imminent ban on disposable vapes in the UK could drive four in ten users to the black market

A study of 1,000 vape users in the UK found that four in ten are likely to use the black market for their supplies once the ban on single-use vapes comes into force in 2025.

Illegal vapes, already a problem in the UK, can contain toxic materials such as lead and nickel. Additionally, they often exceed legal nicotine levels and can deliver an alarming 7,000 puffs, far more than the 600 to 1,000 puff range of legal products.

Commenting on the survey results, Haypp’s Markus Lindbald commented: “On a more positive note, it is promising to see how many are trying to quit vaping before the ban or exploring other lower risk alternatives, such as nicotine pods, instead of starting to vape.” smoke again. “.

He added: “The experience of Sweden, which is on the verge of becoming a smoke-free country, shows that nicotine pouches can play an important role in reducing smoking rates and improving public and individual health. »

Research tells us that young people from wealthier backgrounds are more likely to use these substances than disadvantaged children, and the gap is growing.

“We still don’t know the exact reasons for this, although our report highlights that many young people also suffer from anxiety and poor mental health.

“What we do know is that adults from higher socioeconomic groups drink alcohol more frequently than other groups, probably due to cost, which could make alcohol more accessible.