In a recent study conducted by University College London (UCL) and funded by Cancer Research UK, there has been a documented increase in the popularity of cigar and pipe smoking, particularly among Generation Z, or those aged 18 to 24. This trend represents a significant shift away from traditional cigarette smoking to other forms of tobacco use in England. The research, spanning from 2013 to 2023, indicates that exclusive use of cigars or pipes surged five-fold during this period.

Dr. Sarah Jackson from UCL highlighted the notable rise in alternative tobacco consumption among young people. Adding to the concern, Dr. Ian Walker of Cancer Research UK emphasized the lethal risks associated with all tobacco products, pointing out the urgent need for comprehensive legislation. Tobacco is linked to a death every five minutes in the UK, underlining the critical nature of addressing this public health issue.

The study’s findings identified a jump from 151,200 exclusive non-cigarette tobacco users in 2013 to 772,800 in 2023. This increase was most pronounced among young adults, with 18-year-olds being three times more likely to partake in non-cigarette tobacco use compared to those aged 65 and above. The research also indicated that this trend was more common among men and current vapers.

Particularly concerned over the usage of shisha pipes, the research pointed out the potential for users to inhale the equivalent of over 100 cigarettes in a single session. Despite misconceptions, all forms of tobacco consumption, including non-cigarette products, pose significant cancer risks. With tobacco directly associated with 54,300 cancer cases annually in the UK, the call for comprehensive legislation has intensified.

In response to this emerging trend, there are discussions around government measures, such as gradually raising the smoking age, coupled with enhancing smoking cessation services, to combat this issue and aim for a smoke-free future in the UK.