Policy landscape to act on Vaping Among Adults: a comparative review between United Kingdom, United States and New Zealand.

Abstract

This study examines vaping policy landscapes in the UK, the US, and New Zealand, focusing on the complexities and differences in their approaches. The UK prioritizes harm reduction and consumer safety, with 6.4% of young adults reporting vaping. The US grapples with fragmented policies and increasing vaping rates, which have reached 20% among young adults. New Zealand emphasizes evidence-based policies and preventive measures, with 11% of young adults vaping. The comparative review explores adopted policies, assesses the impact of regulations like non- taxation, advertising rules, and age limits on vaping prevalence and perceptions, and identifies unintended consequences. Using a case study approach, the study explores specific environments, regulations, and behaviors regarding vaping among adults in the selected countries. Search following PRISMA guidelines was conducted across prominent scientific databases and additional sources to comprehensively explore the existing body of research related to vaping up to 2024. Findings reveal that the UK's harm reduction strategy has effectively reduced smoking rates to 13.9% while maintaining low adult vaping prevalence at 6.4%. The US faces ongoing challenges due to regulatory inconsistencies and mixed evidence on vaping's role in smoking cessation, with smoking rates at 14% and vaping rates at 20% among young adults. New Zealand has successfully reduced smoking rates to 9.4% through integrated tobacco control strategies and evidence-based public health campaigns, although adult vaping remains a concern at 11% despite strict preventive measures. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the importance of cohesive, evidence-driven regulatory approaches that align public health goals with consumer access and industry innovation. Recommendations include adopting clear, consistent regulations, focusing on public health education, and ensuring that policies are adaptable to new evidence and emerging trends.