According to experts at University College London (UCL), there is a concern that young e-cigarette users may initiate smoking if they perceive the risks of both products to be similar. The media often exaggerates the health risks of e-cigarettes when compared to smoking, potentially leading smokers to avoid switching to e-cigarettes as a harm-reducing alternative. This misinformation could result in individuals continuing to smoke, thereby increasing their risk of severe health issues and premature death.
Prof Jamie Brown emphasizes the need for clear communication about the risks of various nicotine products, including combustible tobacco and e-cigarettes. He highlights that the exaggerated portrayal of e-cigarette risks in the media may dissuade smokers from trying e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation tool. Similarly, Simon Clark from the smokers' group Forest points out the role of the government in contributing to confusion by implementing restrictions on e-cigarettes, which may hinder smokers from considering these products as a safer alternative to traditional smoking. Conflicting messages from public health authorities and government agencies further add to the uncertainty and may prevent smokers from making informed choices regarding tobacco and e-cigarette use.