New research will investigate the long-term effects of vaping on children, which will support major plans to tackle youth vaping and create a smoke free generation.

The UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) will fund a £62 million research project into adolescent health by tracking 100,000 young people aged 8-18 over a decade, collecting data on behaviour, biology and health records to understand what affects young people’s health and wellbeing, including the impact of vaping. It is one of three sets of research being commissioned by the government, alongside England’s first ever marketing campaign to raise awareness on the harms of vaping on young people.

Vaping is less harmful than smoking and can be a useful tool to help smokers quit, but the amount of young people vaping has skyrocketed recently, with a quarter of 11-15 year olds having tried it.

This research is part of the plan for a Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which will enforce stricter rules on vaping such as limiting flavours, packaging, and displays deliberately designed to appeal to children. The Bill, currently making its way through Parliament, aims to ban the advertising and sponsorships of vapes, as well as increase prevention of underage and illegal sales.

Seeing as we do not fully know the long-term health impacts of vaping, this study will provide the most comprehensive picture yet, giving healthcare workers and policymakers the evidence they need to protect the next generation from future health risks.

Minister for public health and prevention, Ashely Dalton, said: “We know that vaping can be a useful tool to quit smoking, but it’s crucial we have clear evidence on the long-term health harms, especially for young people.

“This landmark series of studies, combined with our first nationwide youth vaping campaign, will help drive evidence-based, decisive action to protect our children’s future.

“Through bold preventative measures, such as the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, the government will deliver on our Plan for Change to build healthier lives and save our broken NHS.”