UK University Students: Lost Mary & ELFBAR Most Favored, 1/4 Finishing One Within a Day

A survey conducted by The Tab has revealed that over half of college students admit to being addicted to vaping e-cigarettes.

Every year, The Tab conducts surveys of over 6000 university students across the UK to understand their drug and e-cigarette usage habits. This year's data is more alarming than last year's, revealing the ever-changing smoking habits among college students. It delves into where they smoke, what they smoke, and the extent of their usage.

So, what changes have occurred over the past year? This year, unsurprisingly, everyone has been talking about Lost Marys. Data reveals that Lost Marys has officially become the most popular e-cigarette, with 34% of students stating it as their top choice. Meanwhile, last year's champion ELFBAR has been chosen by 21% of students.

Among the students who admit to smoking, 52% of them had never smoked before they started. Additionally, 34% of these individuals claimed to consume a disposable e-cigarette within a day or night.

16% of students reported experiencing health problems since they started smoking, with common issues including gum disease, mouth ulcers, persistent breathing difficulties, coughing, and dental problems.

Last year, an investigation by The Tab revealed that 27% of students admitted to being addicted to disposable e-cigarettes. However, what is truly shocking is that just a year later, our exclusive data shows that a staggering 57% of students now confess to being addicted to smoking. This proportion reaches 35% in some universities and approaches 75% in others. The following is the 2024 ranking of e-cigarette addiction rates in UK universities:

Speaking about addiction to e-cigarettes and offering advice to potentially addicted students, Dr. Babak Ashrafi stated, "Similar to regular cigarettes, e-cigarettes release nicotine, a substance that releases neurotransmitters such as dopamine, generating feelings of pleasure and reward in the brain. Certain e-cigarettes can deliver nicotine to the bloodstream faster than traditional cigarettes, making them more prone to causing addiction.

Quitting smoking after becoming addicted to nicotine can result in withdrawal symptoms. Moreover, the availability of various flavors in stores has contributed to the increase in smoking in recent years. Seeking assistance is crucial for students addicted to smoking. If you face challenges, talking to your family doctor or addiction specialist is a recommended first step. They can provide personalized plans and medications to aid in your smoking cessation efforts.

In order to kick this habit, it is crucial to understand what drives you to smoke. Speaking with healthcare professionals can help you identify the stressors or mental health issues that contribute to your addiction. By addressing these issues, you can adopt healthier ways of dealing with stress. Do not underestimate the power of your support network. Mental health counselors and support groups are available to provide you with the support you need. Reaching out to them can offer the support necessary to overcome addiction.