Vaping – Effectiveness of Advertising Restrictions and Role of Advertising and Free Distribution on Uptake

This briefing presents an overview of known impacts of advertising restrictions of vaping products, and of the evidence on the role played by advertising and free distribution on vaping uptake (especially among young people).

Colourful vapes

In 2021, the World Health Organisation recommended the implementation of bans on advertising, promotion and sponsorship of vaping products to tackle use among non-smokers and adolescents.

Given the growing number of non-smokers and people under the age of 18 who are taking up vaping, understanding the effectiveness of these restrictions and the benefits for public health that could derive from them is paramount. This will support policy-making, including work to progress the outstanding regulations under The Health (Tobacco, Nicotine etc. and Care) (Scotland) Act 2016 (“the 2016 Act”) to further restrict the advertising and promotion of nicotine vapour products (NVPs).

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