BTS publishes an updated version of its Position Statement on Tobacco and Vaping
Today the British Thoracic Society (BTS) publishes an updated version of its Position Statement on Tobacco and Vaping. This document reinstates the Society’s views on tobacco and vaping and demonstrates how the Society applies these principles.
Smoking is the leading cause of death and disease in the UK and tobacco addiction is the most common and most deadly co-morbidity. Recent data indicates that the rates of vaping are increasing in both adults and under 18s, including among never smokers., which has driven the need for the Society to update its position.
Some high-level points of the refreshed Position Statement include:
-
Tobacco and/or vapes should not be used by anyone under the age of 18.
-
The tobacco industry must have no opportunity to influence, profit from or be involved in the delivery of UK healthcare, including research.
-
BTS supports equality of access to tobacco dependency services irrespective of postcode, and to those that are homeless, in temporary accommodation, or asylum seekers.
-
Vaping is not harmless, but the Society acknowledges the role that regulated vapes can play as a stop-smoking tool alongside support with a trained expert.
-
BTS supports legislation to create a smoke-free and vape-free society, including the legislation of marketing and efforts to combat misinformation.
The harms and costs of smoking are well documented, and BTS continues to believe that only clean air should be in the lungs.
London, London WC1N 2PL
17/10/2024 09:03:13
British Thoracic Society