Investigation finds over half of UK university students addicted to vaping

By Emily Smith via SWNS

Over half of university students are now addicted to vaping - and at one uni nearly 75 percent vape, an investigation has found.

Student news site The Tab spoke to over 6,000 undergraduates to find out their vaping habits up and down the country.

It says the figures are ''even more shocking'' than last year and ''provide an exclusive look into the changing vaping habits of students''.

The Tab last year found that 27 percent of students were addicted to disposable vapes - this year the figure is 57 percent.

Exclusive data found that Lost Marys has officially taken over as the most popular vape - with 34 percent of students saying it was their first choice.

Elf Bars, which dominated uni campuses last year, were the choice of 21 percent of students.

Of all the students who admitted to vaping, 52 percent said they didn’t smoke before picking up the habit and 34 percent said they get through a disposable vape as quickly as one day or night out.

As a result, 16 percent of students reported having health complications since starting vaping with common ones including gum disease, mouth ulcers, constant shortness of breath, coughing and teeth problems.

The results found at Northumbria University 74 percent of students vape.

Speaking on vape addiction and offering advice to students who may be addicted, Doctor Babak Ashrafi said: “Similar to regular cigarettes, vapes release nicotine – a substance that releases neurotransmitters like dopamine, which generate feelings of pleasure and reward in the brain.

''Certain electronic vapes can deliver nicotine to the bloodstream more rapidly than cigarettes, making them more addictive.

“Quitting vaping after you’ve become addicted to nicotine can result in withdrawal symptoms.

''This, coupled with the wide array of flavors available in stores, has played a key role in the increase in vaping we’ve seen in the past few years. For students hooked on vaping, it’s important to ask for help.

''If you’re struggling, talking to your GP or an addiction specialist is a good first step. They can offer personalized plans and medication to help you quit.

“To kick the habit, it’s crucial to understand what’s driving your need to vape. Talking with a healthcare professional can help you uncover the stressors or mental health issues that are contributing to your addiction.

''By tackling these issues, you can adopt healthier ways of dealing with stress. Don’t forget about the power of your support network.

''Mental health counselors and support groups are there for you. Connecting with them can offer the support you need to beat the addiction.”