The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency published last October, stated that any approved vaping products, will be made available for doctors to prescribe. “This country continues to be a global leader on healthcare, whether it’s our Covid-19 vaccine rollout or our innovative public health measures reducing people’s risk of serious illness,” said Health Secretary Sajid Javid.
“Opening the door to a licensed e-cigarette prescribed on the NHS has the potential to tackle the stark disparities in smoking rates across the country, helping people to stop smoking wherever they live and whatever their background,” added Javid, who has in recent weeks been criticized for suggesting a smoking ban outside pubs and restaurants.
The GoSmokeFree.co.uk survey questioned 1,200 respondents with the aim of gauging how they feel about this development. A significant 35% were in favour of the products being available on prescription given their smoking cessation potential. Given the risks associated with regular cigarettes, another 38% said they believe these should be banned, while 45% do not feel that local anti-smoking laws are tough enough.
The UK commended for embracing science
Meanwhile, the World Vapers’ Alliance (WVA) and WeVape have recently joined forces to commend the UK Government for embracing the science with regards to tobacco harm reduction. While the World Health Organisation (WHO) continues to wage a war on vaping and other safer nicotine alternatives through campaigns and such initiatives, the UK has been a leader at reducing tobacco harm and local smoking rates via progressive vape policies. To this effect, whilst commending the UK’s approach, the groups are calling on UK authorities urging them to strive to influence the WHO’s stance.
“The UK is the world leader in harm reduction and provides an excellent example for the rest of the world on efficient smoking cessation through vaping. Our government has chosen a path that has proven to be fruitful, with science to back that up. In the lead up to WHO’s conference in November, the UK needs to reinforce its commitment to vaping, and encourage other countries to do the same,” said Mark Oates, Director of WeVape.
Read Further: The Scotsman
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