Smoking and vaping

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State of Child Health 2026: Vaping and smoking

This indicator reports primarily on youth vaping trends by examining the proportion of children aged 15 who are e-cigarette users, including those who have ever tried an e-cigarette and those who currently vape, across the UK.

Respiratory medicine

Health policy

Public health

Smoking and vaping

News

Advocating for a better future for every child – President’s update

7 May 2026

Steve reflects on the journey to the Tobacco and Vapes Bill receiving Royal Assent, which marks a landmark step towards a smokefree generation. Plus, you can still sign up for next week's conference, virtually or in-person.

Basic page

Creating a smokefree generation: Tobacco and Vapes Act

On 29 April 2026, the Tobacco and Vapes Bill received Royal Assent, marking a historic moment for child health and a major step towards creating the first smokefree generation. We explain how College members and staff have worked together to influence this Bill, and what happens next.

Public affairs and campaigning

Public health

Smoking and vaping

Wellbeing for children and young people

News

RCPCH responds to Chief Medical Officer for Wales’s annual report

4 December 2025

The Chief Medical Officer has published her annual report 2024 to 2025, which explores how prevention is vital for better health, and how our NHS workforce is key for effective, sustainable care.

News

Royal Colleges demonstrate the efforts of the workforce in improving child health outcomes

24 June 2025

The Welsh Royal Colleges Child Health Collaborative (WRCCHC) unites over 20 Royal Colleges and professional bodies to improve the health and wellbeing of children and young people and the professionals who support them in Wales.

News

Paediatricians welcome the implementation of disposable vapes ban

31 May 2025

The ban brings the UK one step further towards a smokefree generation, but children’s doctors warn Government to not become complacent.

News

RCPCH welcomes landmark vaping study

19 February 2025

A landmark study, funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), will investigate the long-term health effects of vaping on young people's health and well-being.

News

Organisations representing 850,000 healthcare professionals urge MPs to back Tobacco & Vapes Bill

25 November 2024

Ahead of the Tobacco & Vapes Bill second reading, healthcare professionals are asking all MPs to work together and create a smoke-free generation.

News

Child health at the centre of decision-making - President's update

8 November 2024

The UK Government’s Tobacco and Vapes Bill provides us with an opportunity to meet one of our goals in the newly published College Strategy, and we're speaking with MPs to support the measures.

News

Paediatricians welcome the return of Tobacco & Vapes Bill

5 November 2024

The UK Government has re-introduced the Tobacco and Vapes Bill to phase out smoking, restrict youth access to vaping, and expand smoke-free areas.