Overview

• An umbrella review from the University of York and LSHTM, published in Tobacco Control, synthesised 56 reviews covering 384 studies on youth e‑cigarette use.
• Across the evidence base, young people who vape were about three times more likely to take up cigarette smoking, with some reviews noting more frequent and intensive smoking among later adopters.
• The synthesis reports respiratory problems tied to youth vaping, including elevated risks for asthma, pneumonia and bronchitis.
• Links were also reported to mental‑health harms such as depression and suicidal thoughts, as well as higher risks of later cannabis use and binge drinking.
• The findings land as the UK enforces a June ban on disposable vapes to curb youth access, while public‑health advocates urge tighter protections and tobacco industry voices dispute a gateway effect.